Devices and methods for tissue modification

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus are provided for selective surgical removal of tissue, e.g., for enlargement of diseased spinal structures. The current invention includes specific tools that enable safe tissue modification in epidural space, including a barrier that separates the area where tissue modification will take place from adjacent vulnerable neural and vascular structures. In one variation, a tissue abrasion device is provided including a thin belt or ribbon with an abrasive cutting surface. The device optionally may be placed within a protective sheath that exposes the abrasive surface of the ribbon only in the area where tissue removal is desired.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/619,306, filed Oct. 15, 2004, U.S. application Ser. No. 60/622,865,filed Oct. 28, 2004, U.S. application Ser. No. 60/681,719, filed May 16,2005, U.S. application Ser. No. 60/681,864, filed May 16, 2005, and U.S.application Ser. No. 60/685,190, filed May 27, 2005, each of which isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for selectivesurgical removal of tissue, such as for the treatment of spinal neuraland neurovascular impingement, through selective resection, ablation,and remodeling of tissue in the lateral recess, neural foramina andcentral spinal canal, more particularly, for safely performing lateralrecess and neuroforaminal enlargement of the spine.

More particularly, the present invention relates to treating neural andneurovascular impingement in the spine through the creation of a safeworking space adjacent to neural and neurovascular structures, followedby selective surgical removal of tissue. Both percutaneous and opensurgical variations of the invention are disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Pathological compression of spinal neural and neurovascular structuresmost commonly results from a degenerative, age-related process,increasing in prevalence and severity in elderly populations, withpotential congenital anatomic components, that result in back, radicularextremity pain and both neurological (e.g., sensory) and mechanical(e.g., motor) dysfunction. Prevalence is also influenced by congenitalspinal anatomy. Disease progression leads to increased neuralirritation, neural and neurovascular impingement, and ischemia, and isfrequently accompanied by progressively increased pain, often inconjunction with reflex, sensory and motor neurological deficits.

In the United States, Spinal Stenosis occurs with an incidence ofbetween 4 percent and 6 percent of adults 50 years of age or older, andis the most frequent reason cited for back surgery in patients 60 yearsof age and older.

Spinal Stenosis often includes neural and/or neurovascular impingement,which may occur in the central spinal canal, the lateral recesses of thespinal canal, or in the spinal neural foramina. The most common causesof neural compression within the spine are spinal disc disease(collapse, bulging, herniation); ligamentum flavum buckling, thickeningand/or hypertrophy; zygapophysial (facet) joint hypertrophy; osteophyteformation; and spondylolisthesis.

Disease progression increases neural irritation, impingement, andischemia, and is frequently accompanied by progressively increased pain,often in conjunction with reflex, sensory and motor neurological changes(e.g., deficits).

Current surgical treatments for Spinal Stenosis include laminectomy(usually partial, but sometimes complete), laminotomy and/or facetectomy(usually partial, but sometimes complete), with or without fusion. Whilestandard surgical procedures (e.g., spinal decompressions) lead toimprovements in symptoms for 6 months or more in approximately 60% ofcases, there is an unacceptable incidence of long-term complications andmorbidity: approximately 40% of patients do not obtain sustainedimprovement with current surgical decompressions.

Several companies offer tools that facilitate surgical access to theareas of the spine where neural impingement is likely to occur, in orderto allow the surgeon to decompress the impinged neural structuresthrough the removal of vertebral lamina, ligamentum flavum, facetcomplex, bone spurs, and/or intervertebral disc material. These surgicalresections are frequently (i.e., occurs in 15% to 20% of cases)accompanied by fusion (arthrodesis). Spinal arthrodesis is performed tofuse adjacent vertebrae and prevent movement of these structures inrelation to each other. The fusion is commonly a treatment for pain ofpresumed disc or facet joint origin; for severe spondylolisthesis; forpresumed spinal instability; and for spines that have been rendered“unstable” by the surgical decompression procedures, as described above.The definition of “spinal instability” remains controversial in currentliterature.

Spinal arthrodesis may be achieved through various surgical techniques.Biocompatible metallic hardware and/or autograft or allograft bone iscommonly placed (e.g., secured) anteriorly and/or posteriorly in thevertebral column in order to achieve surgical fusion. These materialsare secured along and between the vertebral bodies (to restore vertebralheight and replace disk material) and/or within the posterior elements,typically with pedicle screw fixation. Autograft bone is often harvestedfrom the patient's iliac crest. Cadaveric allograft is frequently cut indisc shaped sections of long bones for replacement of the intervertebraldiscs in the fusion procedure.

Critics have frequently stated that, while discectomy and fusionprocedures frequently improve symptoms of neural impingement in theshort term, both are highly destructive procedures that diminish spinalfunction, drastically disrupt normal anatomy, and increase long-termmorbidity above levels seen in untreated patients.

The high morbidity associated with discectomy may be due to severalfactors. First, discectomy reduces disc height, causing increasedpressure on facet joints. This stress leads to facet arthritis and facetjoint hypertrophy, which then causes further neural compression. Thesurgically-imposed reduction in disc height also may lead toneuroforaminal stenosis, as the vertebral pedicles, which form thesuperior and inferior borders of the neural foramina, become closer toone another. The loss of disc height also creates ligament laxity, whichmay lead to spondylolisthesis, spinal instability or osteophyte or “bonespur” formation, as it has been hypothesized that ligaments may calcifyin their attempt to become more “bone-like”. In addition, discectomyfrequently leads to an incised and further compromised disc annulus.This frequently leads to recurrent herniation of nuclear materialthrough the surgically created or expanded annular opening. It may alsocause further buckling of the ligamentum flavum. The high morbidityassociated with fusion is related to several factors. First, extensivehardware implantation may lead to complications due to breakage,loosening, nerve injury, infection, rejection, or scar tissue formation.In addition, autograft bone donor sites (typically the patient's iliaccrest) are a frequent source of complaints, such as infection,deformity, and protracted pain. Perhaps the most important reason forthe long-term morbidity caused by spinal fusion is the loss of mobilityin the fused segment of the spine. Not only do immobile vertebralsegments lead to functional limitations, but they also cause increasedstress on adjacent vertebral structures, thereby frequently acceleratingthe degeneration of other discs, joints, bone and other soft tissuestructures within the spine.

Recently, less invasive, percutaneous approaches to spinal discectomyand fusion have been tried with some success. While these less invasivetechniques offer advantages, such as a quicker recovery and less tissuedestruction during the procedure, the new procedures do not diminish thefact that even less invasive spinal discectomy or fusion techniques areinherently destructive procedures that accelerate the onset of acquiredspinal stenosis and result in severe long-term consequences.

Additional less invasive treatments of neural impingement within thespine include percutaneous removal of nuclear disc material andprocedures that decrease the size and volume of the disc through thecreation of thermal disc injury. While these percutaneous procedures mayproduce less tissue injury, their efficacy remains unproven.

Even more recently, attempts have been made to replace pathologicaldiscs with prosthetic materials. While prosthetic disc replacement is arestorative procedure, it is a highly invasive and complex surgery. Anysynthetic lumbar disc will be required to withstand tremendousmechanical stresses and will require several years of development.Current synthetic disc designs can not achieve the longevity desired.Further, synthetic discs may not be an appropriate therapeutic approachto a severely degenerative spine, where profound facet arthropathy andother changes are likely to increase the complexity of disc replacement.Like most prosthetic joints, it is likely that synthetic discs will havea limited lifespan and that there will be continued need for minimallyinvasive techniques that delay the need for disc replacement.

Even if prosthetic discs become a viable solution, the prosthetic discswill be very difficult to revise for patients. The prosthesis will,therefore, be best avoided in many cases. A simpler, less invasiveapproach to restoration of functional spinal anatomy would play animportant role in the treatment of neural impingent in the spine. Theartificial discs in U.S. clinical trials, as with any first generationprosthesis, are bound to fail in many cases, and will be very difficultto revise for patients. The prostheses will, therefore, be best avoided,in many cases. Lumbar prosthetic discs are available in severalcountries worldwide.

In view of the aforementioned limitations of prior art techniques fortreating neural and neurovascular impingement in the spine, it would bedesirable to provide methods and apparatus for selective surgicalremoval of tissue that reduce or overcome these limitations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, the present invention provides apparatus andmethods for selective removal of tissue, e.g., soft tissue and bone,preferably in a minimally invasive fashion. The present inventionprovides apparatus and methods for safe and selective delivery ofsurgical tools into to the epidural space; and for apparatus and methodsthat enable safe and selective surgical removal, ablation, andremodeling of soft tissue and bone, preferably in a minimally invasivefashion, with the apparatus delivered into the epidural space. Animportant preferred variation of the methods and apparatus are used totreat neural and neurovascular impingement in the spine, through a novelapproach to safe and selective enlargement of the pathologically narrowspinal neural foramen, the impinged lateral recess, and central canal.

The present invention eliminates much or all of the need to resectnon-impinging tissues in order to gain surgical access. In a preferredembodiment, the methods and apparatus are used for the treatment ofneural and neurovascular impingement in the spine through a novelapproach to safe enlargement of the pathologically narrow spinal neuralforamen and the impinged lateral recess. Tissue removal may be performedin a partially or completely open surgical fashion, or in a lessinvasive or minimally invasive percutaneous fashion. In someembodiments, the invention provides neural stimulation, localization,and/or protection in order to provide a protected working space and tofacilitate safe tissue remodeling or removal.

The apparatus and methods have been designed to avoid removal ofnon-target tissue and to minimize and/or completely prevent trauma toadjacent neural and vascular structures. The methods and apparatus canbe used for the treatment of neural and neurovascular impingement in thespine, for example, safe enlargement of the pathologically impingedlateral recess and narrowed spinal neural foramen. Perineural tissue canbe removed safely and selectively in a partially or completely opensurgical fashion, or in a less invasive or minimally invasivepercutaneous fashion. The apparatus and methods described herein can beutilized for lateral recess and neuroforaminal enlargement to provideadequate bone and soft tissue resection. The apparatus and methodsdescribed herein can reduce unnecessary destruction of functional bone,ligament or muscle in order to gain access to tissues to be resected.

The present invention encompasses both open and percutaneous approachesto spinal neurovascular decompression, for example, through passage ofan atraumatic, thin tissue removal device from the epidural spacelaterally through the neural foramen. Variations of the presentinvention preferably provide for access, neural protection and/ordecompression.

Methods and apparatus for spinal lateral recess, neuroforaminal, and/orcentral canal enlargement, through selective and safe alteration of thetissues that pathologically impinge neural and neurovascular structuresin the spine are disclosed. Impinging tissues to be removed from, orremodeled in, the spine's central canal, lateral recess, and neuralforamen, with the herein described methods and apparatus, can includeligamentum flavum; bone spurs or ligamentous calcifications; localizeddisc extrusions; enlarged facet joint complex; bone; scar tissue oradhesions; and osteophytes.

In an open variation, access may be achieved via an access elementcomprising a cannulated probe, which optionally may be similar in shapeto currently used neuroforaminal instruments, such as the Ball-tipped,Woodson Elevator, or “Hockey Stick” Probes. The probe may be placedthrough the surgical incision into the epidural space. A curvedatraumatic needle then may be advanced through the cannula of the probeand driven laterally to cannulate the neural foramen. A preferablystraight, flexible guide wire or needle then may be advanced through thecurved needle and driven posteriorly through the skin of the patient'sback. Alternatively, surgical incisions may be made on either side ofthe foramen, and the guide wire may be pulled through the secondincision.

Another preferred open surgical approach utilizes a cannulated probe, asdescribed above, the tip of which is placed into the lateral recess,adjacent to or into the neural foramina. Next, a curved and atraumaticguide wire is advanced out of the distal lumen of the cannulated probe,through the neural foramina laterally, and around the lateral thenposterior aspect of the facet capsule, until the distal tip of the wireis driven back into the surgical opening. At that point, the surgeon hasaccess to both ends of the guide wire, and the tissue removal device maybe pulled or advanced into position via the guide wire. The guide wiremay be attached to the tissue removal device by any of several possiblemeans. One simple method for using a guide wire to pull a tissue removaldevice would be to have an eyelet present in the proximal guide wire,through which the tissue removal device may be thread. Open accessoptionally may be aided by the use of image guidance, an epiduralendoscope, an endoscopic channel added to the cannulated probesdescribed above, or any other visualization technique.

In a percutaneous variation, access may be achieved via an accesselement comprising an epidural needle or probe, or via an epiduralendoscope having a working channel. The access element may be positionedin the epidural space, and a curved atraumatic needle then may beadvanced through the needle, probe or working channel and drivenlaterally to cannulate the neural foramen. As with the open variation, apreferably straight, flexible guide wire or needle may be advancedthrough the curved needle and driven posteriorly through the skin of thepatient's back. Percutaneous access optionally may be aided by the useof image guidance, an epidural endoscope or any other visualizationtechnique.

In a preferred embodiment, the methods and apparatus include theplacement of a working backstop or barrier into the epidural space orneural foramina, to a location between the tool positioned for tissuealteration, and adjacent vulnerable neural or vascular structures, tohelp prevent neural or vascular injury during surgery. In a furtherpreferred embodiment, the methods and apparatus utilize neuralstimulation techniques, to enable neural localization, as a means ofimproving the safety of the procedure.

In one variation of the present invention, an epidural needle may beconverted to a working tool in order to resect or remodel spinal tissue,which is enabled by the use of methods and apparatuses described herein.

After placement of an epidural needle into the epidural space, a specialepidural catheter is threaded through the needle into the epiduralspace. This catheter apparatus contains a needle tip cover in its distalend, which, after it is converted to an open position in the epiduralspace, is pulled back over the needle tip, by pulling on the proximalportion of the catheter. The catheter based cover blunts and therebyprotects the vulnerable structures of the spine, such as the dura, fromthe sharp epidural needle tip. With the epidural needle tip covered, theneedle may be more safely advanced into the epidural space, in adirection somewhat parallel to the dura, towards the contralateral oripsilateral lateral recess and neural foramen. The needle may beadvanced blindly; with image guidance; or with endoscopic guidance.

The epidural catheter, with the cap or cover for the epidural needle,may or may not contain a rigid or flexible fiberoptic cable. With afiberoptic element and a clear tip to the catheter, the epidural needlemay be converted to an epidural endoscope or “needlescope”.

One preferred embodiment of the epidural needle apparatus contains twoadjacent lumens (“double barreled”), with a working channel adjacent tothe epidural needle. The working channel may be fixed and permanent, orremovable, as in with a rail and track connection. A removable workingchannel, in one embodiment, may be inserted or removed while the tip ofthe epidural needle remains in the epidural space. The distal beveledopening of the working channel, in a preferred variation, is locatedproximal to and on the same side of the needle as the epidural needletip beveled opening faces, facilitating visualization of the workingchannel tools when a fiberoptic element has been placed in through theepidural needle lumen.

The epidural needle or the working channel of the epidural needle may bea vehicle for insertion of a working backstop or barrier, anotherapparatus that facilitates safe tissue resection and remodeling in theepidural space. The barrier is a thin flat device that may be deliveredinto or adjacent to the epidural space or neural foramina, through theneedle or working channel, or through an endoscope or open incision.Such a backstop may consist of a flexible, curved, thin and flat pieceof material. This barrier will serve to protect neural and neurovascularstructures from being damaged during tissue manipulation and resection,because it will be placed between the tissue to be ablated, resected,irritated, manipulated or remodeled, and the vulnerable neural andvascular structures or dura. The tools for tissue resection and ablationwill be used on the side of the barrier opposite from the vulnerableneural and vascular structures, which will be safely protected frominadvertent injury.

With access, as well as optional neural protection and/or neurallocalization, established, decompression or selective tissue removal orremodeling may proceed. A tissue removal device with a tissue removalsurface is advanced into position, for example, through, along, over orwith the neural protection element, e.g. via rail(s) or channel(s) ofthe neural protection element, or along the guide wire(s); or is pulledinto position via the guide wire or the neural protection element, etc.When properly positioned, the tissue removal surface contacts theimpinging tissue slated for removal.

The abrasion device may, for example, include a thin belt or ribbon,with an abrasive, shaving, and/or cutting surface, that is placedthrough the neural foramina and is held firmly against the tissue to beremoved. The belt optionally may be placed, at least partially, within aprotective sheath or covering, with the area exposed to the abrasivesurface of the device somewhat limited to the area where tissue abrasionand removal is desired. The abrasive element may be provided in one ormore of a variety of potentially interchangeable shapes, ranging fromflat to curved; narrow to wide; or solid to perforated. The abrasivesurface may also have various enabling designs, or surface patterns, orcoarseness of abrasive material. The apparatus is placed with both freeends of the abrasive element, as well as the ends of the optionalprotective sleeve or covering, external to the patient for manipulationby a medical practitioner.

When the optional protective sleeve or sheath is provided, both ends ofthe sleeve may be held under tension, external to the patient, such thatthe abrasive belt or ribbon may be pulled back and forth through thesleeve without causing significant friction against and/or trauma toadjacent tissues. Initially, both ends of the abrasive ribbon are pulledsimultaneously, pulling the device in a posterior and/or lateraldirection, thereby bringing impinging spinal tissue in contact with theabrasive and/or cutting surface of the ribbon. When one end of theribbon is pulled with more force than the other, the ribbon moves in thedirection of the stronger pull, while the lesser pull on the oppositeend maintains force and creates friction with movement between theabrasive surface and the tissue to be resected.

In an open surgical variation, the ribbon or belt and/or the protectivecovering or sleeve may be placed through the surgical incision. In apercutaneous variation, the device may be inserted through a needle overa wire. As with the percutaneous approaches, placement may be aided bythe use of image guidance and/or the use of an epidural endoscope.

Once the surgical apparatus has been placed, the medical practitionermay enlarge the lateral recess and neural foramina via frictionalabrasion, i.e., by sliding the abrasive surface across the tissue to beresected. Impinging tissue to be targeted for abrasion may include, butis not limited to, lateral ligamentum flavum, anterior and medial facet,and osteophytes. The medical practitioner controls the force and speedof the abrasive surface against the tissue to be removed, while optionalcovers define the tissue exposed to the abrasive element.

One variation of the abrasive element cover envelopes the abrasivesurface and the backside of the belt or ribbon in areas where tissueabrasion is not intended. A nerve stimulator may be incorporated intothe abrasive surface and/or the protective cover or sleeve in order toverify correct placement and enhance safety by allowing the medicalpractitioner to ensure that neural tissue is not subject to inadvertentabrasion.

In one variation, the methods and apparatus include placement of acompression dressing following the surgical procedure. Followingneuroforaminal and lateral recess enlargement, it may be advantageous toleave, as a surgical dressing, a belt or ribbon pulled tightly againstthe abraded tissue surface. It is expected that a compression dressingwill enhance hemostasis, promote healing and promote subsequent tissueremodeling with the neural foramen more widely open. Furthermore, thesurgical dressing would provide a barrier to trap tissue debris awayfrom neural or neurovascular structures, while providing an optionaltechnique for delivering medication, possibly as a depot, to theoperative site. Finally, the dressing would also present a smoothsurface towards the nerve root during the immediate post-operativeperiod.

The present invention also describes methods and apparatus that may beused as a compression dressing, after tissue resection or ablation. Onevariation of the compression dressing is placed in a position where itis firmly wrapped around the facet and ligamentum flavum through theneural foramina, as illustrated in FIG. 49. By tightly pressing againsttreated tissue surfaces, such a device serves to promote desired tissueremodeling; to prevent edema from leading to impingement on neural orvascular tissue during early healing, to contain debris; to promotepostoperative hemostasis; to block scar formation between the raw tissuesurfaces and the adjacent neural and vascular structures; to avoidinflammation or irritation to neural and vascular structures fromcontact with adjacent resected tissue surfaces; and as a mechanism forsustained drug delivery post-operatively (e.g. steroids, procoagulants,adhesion barriers).

This neuroforaminal compression dressing may, for example, comprise theoptional protective sheath, percutaneously held tightly in place againstthe abraded surface. Alternatively or additionally, a separatepercutaneously removable compression dressing may be placed followingtissue abrasion, with or without a biodegradable component. In a furtheralternative embodiment, an entirely biodegradable compression dressingmay be placed tightly against the abraded surface, with the compressiondressing remaining completely implanted following the procedure.

In order to reduce a risk of neurological damage during selective tissueremoval, variations of the present invention optionally may provideneural protection during tissue removal. In one variation, a neuralprotection element, e.g., a sheath, shield or backstop, is positioned(e.g., advanced over, or is pulled into place via the guide wire) suchthat the neural protection element separates impinging tissue in theneural foramen from the underlying dura, adjacent nerve root, dorsalroot ganglion, and/or neural vasculature. Tissue removal then mayproceed by advancing a tissue removal device into position betweenimpinging tissue and the neural protection element. The neuralprotection element preferably comprises an atraumatic profile, to reducetissue injury. For example, the element may comprise rounded edges.Further, low friction materials, coatings, or hydrophilic coatings onthe tissue removal element or on the shield may be helpful in atraumaticintroduction of these devices through the epidural space and neuralforamen.

The neural protection element may comprise a window or local openingthat limits exposure of the tissue removal device to the patient'stissue only to the localized area of the opening. The opening may bepositioned such that it directly underlies the area of desired tissueremoval, e.g., such that it directly underlies the neural foramen andimpinging tissue. Irrigation and/or aspiration optionally may beperformed through the window, e.g., for debris removal. Suction also maybe drawn through the window to engage the impinging tissue and/or toprovide a seal against the target tissue. Optionally, the sheath windowmay comprise a cutting element that coacts with the tissue removaldevice. Furthermore, the tissue removal device may present its cuttingelements at the window. The window optionally may be opened, closed orresized by a medical practitioner as desired. For example, the windowmay be closed during delivery, opened during tissue removal, then closedduring retrieval of the sheath. When the neural protection elementcomprises a backside shield, the tissue removal device may be deliveredthrough rails within the edges of the shield, or in conjunction with theshield.

Neural protection can be provided during tissue removal, for example, toreduce the risk of neurological damage during selective tissue removal.The neural protection element can be positioned after the needle tip hasbeen placed adjacent to, or within the neural foramina. The neuralprotection element can be a sheath, shield, backstop, or combinationsthereof.

As an added safety precaution, variations of the present inventionoptionally may comprise neural localization elements to ensure properpositioning of the neural protection element and/or the tissue removaldevice. The neural localization elements may comprise separate elementsor may be integrated with the neural protection element and/or thetissue removal device. In one variation, the neural protection elementmay comprise a sheath with integrated neural localization elements. Inanother variation, the neural protection element may comprise a shieldwith integrated neural localization elements. In yet another variation,the neural protection element may comprise a portion of the tissueremoval apparatus that is intended to remain stationary during tissueremoval, located adjacent to the moving tissue removal elements. Theconductive neural localization elements may be used to ensure that theneural structures and their adjacent vascular structures are on thenon-working or backside of the neural protection element.

Neural localization elements on the backside of the neural protectionelement (i.e., the side of the neural protection element that contactsor is in proximity to the nerve root when properly positioned) may beactivated with a stimulation waveform to stimulate the nerve root,thereby providing a positive control that confirms placement of thebackside in proximity to the nerve root. Appropriate low intensityelectrical stimulation on the backside surface should result in thestimulation of sensory and/or motor nerves in the patient's extremity.Likewise, neural localization elements on the working side of the neuralprotection element, or on the tissue removal element, (i.e., the side ofthe neural protection element or tissue removal element that facesimpinging tissue slated for removal) may be activated with a stimulationwaveform in anticipation of a negative response or no neural stimulationthat confirms that the working side is not in contact with the nerveroot and that tissue removal may safely proceed. Neural localizationelements may be provided on any side or surface of the neural protectionelement and/or tissue removal element.

Safe tissue removal, ablation and remodeling with these methods anddevices is further enabled by complementary methods and apparatuses thatassist with accurate neural localization. Neural localization will beperformed by neural stimulation through electrically conductivematerials located within the capped epidural needle tip; within theepidural tools that will be in contact with tissue to be modified; orone or both sides of the working barrier. Neural stimulation will beperformed in conjunction with monitoring of the patient for sensoryand/or motor response to the electrical impulses.

Said backstop may also contain neural localization capabilities,including a conductive element on the working side and/or thenon-working side. The conductive element may be used to ensure that theneural and their adjacent vascular structures are on the non-workingside of the barrier. In the instance that the barrier is placed throughthe lateral recess or neural foramina, appropriate low intensityelectrical stimulation on the non-working surface should result in thestimulation of sensory or motor nerves in the patient's extremity, whileappropriate electrical conduction on the working surface should resultin no neural stimulation.

Neural stimulation may be monitored by monitoring somatosensory-evokedpotentials (SSEPs), motor-evoked potentials (MEPs), and/or by lookingfor visual signs of muscular contraction within the extremities.(Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) are non-invasive studiesperformed by repetitive, sub-maximal, electrical stimulation of asensory or mixed sensory and motor nerve. In response to the nervestimulation the brain generates cerebral action potentials (electricalwaves), that can be measured and recorded over the scalp and spine withsurface electrodes. Typically, needle electrodes are used forintraoperative SSEP monitoring, as they require less current, and reduceartifact. The recorded response is a series of waves that reflectactivation of neural structures.) SSEP, SEP, MEP or EMG feedback may bemonitored and/or recorded visually, or may be monitored audibly,potentially conveying quantitative feedback related to the volume orfrequency of the auditory signal (e.g., a Geiger counter type ofquantitative auditory feedback). Intensity of signal or stimulation maybe monitored and used to localize the nerve during placement, as well.

For example, the surgeon may use the neural stimulator to ensure thatthere is not stimulation of vulnerable neurons on the working side ofthe barrier, prior to initiating tissue manipulation with the workingtools. For example, with the barrier in position in the lateral recessor neural foramina, the surgeon may send electrical current first alongthe working side of the barrier, then along the backside of the barrier.Low level stimulation of the working side would be expected to result inno neural stimulation, while the same stimulation on the backside of thebarrier would be expected to stimulate dorsal roots, nerve roots, organglia.

Neural localization may be further enabled by the addition of surgicalinstruments (e.g. cautery devices, graspers, shavers, burrs, probes,etc.). The surgical instruments can be used that selectively deliverelectrical current while the patient is monitored for nerve stimulation,for example to further enable neural localization, that selectivelydeliver electrical current (e.g., stimulate electrically) while thepatient is monitored for nerve stimulation in similar fashions, forexample to further neural localization. Quantification of stimulationcan enable neural localization. For example, the user can use acalibrated sensor input that recognizes stronger stimulation as thedevice is moved closer to neural structures, or is able to differentiatebetween stimulators that are closer to or further from neuralstructures. For added safety, a surgical device can be designed toautomatically stimulate before or during tissue removal (e.g.,resection), and can be designed to automatically stop tissue removal(e.g., resection) when nerve stimulation has been sensed.

The tissue removal device (e.g., a tissue abrasion device) can beplaced, either percutaneously or through an open surgical approach,through the neural foramina of the spine, and at least partially aroundthe anterior border of the facet joint, anterior to the ligamentumflavum. The removal device (e.g., the abrasion device) alternatively oradditionally can be placed through the neural foramen anterior to thefacet joint, but into and through the body of, or posterior to theligamentum flavum. After spinal neuroforaminal placement, the device canbe used to remove or selectively remove tissues that impinge on theneurovascular structures within the lateral recess and neural foramen,anterior to the facet joint, thereby enlarging the lateral recess andneural foramina via selective tissue removal. Impinging tissue to betargeted for removal can include, but is not limited to, lateralligamentum flavum, anterior and medial facet capsule, facet bone, and/orosteophytes. In another variation the tissue removal device can bepositioned for removal of central stenosis.

The tissue removal surface of the tissue removal device may comprisevarious tissue removal elements for selectively removing all or aportion of the impinging tissue. In one variation, the tissue removalsurface comprises one or more non-powered mechanical tissue removalelements that are drawn or pulled, e.g., under tension, across theimpinging tissue to remove the tissue by cutting, shaving, etc.

During tissue removal, the tissue removal device may be drawn acrossimpinging tissue in a single direction or may be reciprocated. Themechanical elements may comprise cutting elements, such as blades, bandsaws, or wire saws. The blades may comprise various shapes (e.g.serrated), sizes, and configurations, as desired. Alternatively, themechanical elements may comprise abrasives, such as a diamond or oxidecoating. Furthermore, coacting blades may be provided to achieve aguillotine-type or scissor-type cutting action. Blades may be attachedto the tissue removal device or may be formed by punching, grinding, orstamping through the device with optional subsequent grinding of thepunched edge. Alternatively, the blades may be formed by a chemicaletching process. The blades may comprise a 3-dimensional profile tofacilitate cutting, for example, a bow or a corrugation or a ‘cheesegrater’ profile. Furthermore, the blades may be placed at one or moreangles relative to the direction of tissue removal. Cutting surfaces ofthe blades may be oriented in a single direction or may be oriented inmultiple directions. Additionally, the blades may be serrated. Asanother alternative, the mechanical elements may comprise cutting wiresor wire saws, for example, one or more Gigli saws. A plurality orcutting wires or Gigli saws may be joined or woven together or flattenedto form a substantially planar cutting surface. Further, a wire saw(s)or Gigli saw(s) may be attached to a ribbon backing, said ribbon therebylimiting the depth of penetration of the tissue removal device(“depth-stop ribbon”).

In another variation, the tissue removal surface comprises one or morepowered mechanical tissue removal elements. The powered mechanicaltissue removal elements may comprise, for example, band saws, beltshavers, rotary burrs or blades, reciprocating burrs or blades, etc.

The tissue removal surface can have an energy delivery system thatablates, vaporizes, breaks up, or changes the modulus of the tissue, forexample, aiding tissue removal. The tissue removal system can deliverone or more of various energies to facilitate removal of tissue. Theenergies can be electrical, ultrasound, thermal, microwave, laser, cryo,or combinations thereof. In another variation, the tissue removalsurface comprises one or more electrosurgery elements for tissueremoval/ablation. The electrosurgery elements additionally oralternatively can be utilized to achieve hemostasis and/or to facilitateneural localization. Monopolar or bipolar RF elements can, for example,be utilized and activated with a thermal or substantially non-thermalwaveform.

Any other known tissue removal elements may be utilized with the tissueremoval device including, for example, lasers, high-pressure fluid,thermal elements, radioactive elements, etc. It should be understoodthat various tissue removal elements may be used in any combination, asdesired.

In order to reduce friction during placement, diagnosis, treatmentand/or removal, the access elements, the neural protection elementand/or the tissue removal device can have or comprise a lubriciouscoating, for example, a hydrophilic coating, a poly(tetrafluoroethylene)coating, etc. The coating can reduce friction during placement,diagnosis, treatment and/or removal. Furthermore, the tissue removaldevice, the access elements and/or the neural protection element may bybiocompatible and/or non-friable. Debris removal elements also may beprovided.

The method can be performed through an epidural needle that has beeninserted into the epidural space. The epidural needle may be insertedpercutaneously, or via an open incision, via a standard posteriorparamedian (interlaminar) or midline (interspinous) approach, forexample, using a loss of resistance technique known to those having anordinary level of skill in the art.

A catheter can then be threaded through the needle and into the epiduralspace. The catheter distal tip can have a protective hood, cover, orneedle cap, for example, which can be designed to be placed over theneedle tip. When the catheter distal tip has been placed in the epiduralspace, the user can open the protective hood covering. After theprotective covering is opened, the catheter can be slidably retractedthrough the needle until the protective hood cover firmly encloses thesharp edges or points in the area of the epidural needle tip. When theprotective hood cover firmly protects the needle tip, the catheter canbe fixed to the needle. The needle with the protective hood covering onthe needle tip can be configured as a blunt instrument.

The needle can then be advanced until the needle distal end is in alateral recess, adjacent to the neural foramina. The user can usetactile feedback from the needle, image guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy), orcombinations thereof, to position the needle distal end to the lateralrecess.

A tissue removal device can be positioned between the impinging tissueto be removed and the neural protection element. A curved flexiblestylet can be inserted into the catheter. The catheter can then beadvanced through the needle. The tip of the catheter can be driven, forexample, along the inferior border of the facet, cephalad to the neuraland neurovascular structures, and through the neural foramina laterally.

An atraumatic curved needle can be advanced through the epiduralcatheter and driven through the neural foramina, also between the tissueto be removed and the neural structures to be protected.

A curved thin shield can be advanced through the epidural needle anddriven through the neural foramina, also positioned between the tissuesto be removed and tissues to be protected.

The catheter, curved needle, or shield can serve as a barrier, forexample, between the tissue to be removed and the neural andneurovascular structures. The catheter, curved needle, or shield canserve can assist in the delivery of a barrier, for example, between thetissue to be removed and the neural and neurovascular structures. Thecatheter, curved needle, or shield can be expanded within the neuralforamina to serve as a barrier, for example, between the tissue to beremoved and the neural and neurovascular structures. The neuralprotection element can have an atraumatic profile, for example, toreduce tissue injury. The neural protection element can have roundededges.

The user can visualize the epidural space, for example, via a fiberoptic element that can be covered by a distal clear tip. The fiber opticelement can be delivered within the epidural catheter. The fiber opticelement can be delivered via a working channel within or adjacent to theepidural needle.

In an open surgery variation, access can be achieved via an accesselement comprising a cannulated probe, such as a cannulated ball-tippedprobe, Woodson elevator, or Hockey Stick hybrid. The probe can be placedthrough the surgical incision into the epidural space. A curved element,such as an atraumatic needle, then can be advanced through the cannulaof the probe and driven laterally to cannulate the neural foramen. Inaddition to direct visualization and tactile feedback, open access canbe aided by the use of image guidance, an epidural endoscope or anyother visualization technique.

When the neural protection element comprises a sheath, the tissueremoval device can be delivered through or along the sheath, or inconjunction with the sheath. The sheath can have a window or localopening that limits exposure of the tissue removal device to thepatient's tissue only to the localized area of the opening. The openingcan be positioned directly underlying the area of desired tissueremoval, e.g., directly underlying the neural foramen and impingingtissue in the central canal, the lateral recess, and/or within theneural foramen.

Irrigation and/or aspiration can be performed through the window, e.g.,for debris removal. Suction also can be drawn through the window toengage the impinging tissue and/or to provide a seal against the targettissue and/or to remove tissue debris and/or to remove fluid. The sheathwindow can have a cutting or ablation element that coacts with thetissue removal device. The tissue removal device can present the tissueremoval elements at the window. The window optionally can be opened,closed or resized by a medical practitioner as desired. For example, thewindow can be closed during delivery, opened during tissue removal, thenclosed during retrieval of the sheath.

Neural localization elements can be used to improve positioning of theneural protection element and/or the tissue removal device. The neurallocalization elements can have separate elements or can be integratedwith the neural protection element and/or the tissue removal device. Inone variation, the neural protection element can have a sheath or otherelement with integrated neural localization elements. Electricallyconductive neural localization elements can be used to ensure that theneural structures are on the non-working or backside of the barrier.Neural localization elements on the back side of the neural protectionelement (i.e., the side of the neural protection element that contactsthe nerve root when properly positioned) can be activated with a backside electrical current (e.g., delivered as a waveform). The back sideelectrical current can stimulate the nerve root or other neuralstructures, for example, providing a signal to the user that the backside has been placed adjacent to the nerve root. Low intensityelectrical current on the back side surface can result in thestimulation of sensory or motor nerves in the patient's extremity.Neural localization elements on the working side of the neuralprotection element (i.e., the side of the neural protection element thatfaces impinging tissue slated for removal) can be activated with a frontside electrical current (e.g., delivered as a waveform, for example withdistinct characteristics than the waveform of the back side electricalcurrent). The electrical current can stimulate a negative response or noneural stimulation, for example, providing a signal to the user that theworking side is not in contact with the nerve root and that tissueremoval may safely proceed. Neural localization elements can be providedon any or all sides of the neural protection element.

After access is established, optionally including neural protectionand/or neural localization, and the tissue removal device can bepositioned such that the tissue removal surface contacts the impingingtissue slated for removal, then the user can selectively remove tissue.Tissue removal can result in neural and/or neurovascular decompression.The elastic modulus of impinging tissue can be altered, for example, tofacilitate removal of the tissue. For example, the modulus of softtissue can be increased to gain purchase on the soft tissue with thetissue removal elements. Such modulus alteration can be achieved, forexample, through compression, denaturation, electrosurgical exposure,thermal remodeling (hot or cold), chemical alteration, epoxy or glues orhydrogels, or any combination thereof. Remodeling of the tissue duringor after modulus alteration can alleviate impingement and obviate orreduce a need for tissue removal.

In combination with the energy delivery system, or as a stand alonetissue removal option, one or more non-powered mechanical tissue removalelements (e.g. abrasives or cutting elements such as blades or saws) canbe drawn across the impinging tissue to remove the tissue by cutting,shaving, slicing, scissoring, guillotining, scraping, tearing, abrading,or combinations thereof. The blade can be drawn across impinging tissuein a single direction and/or can be reciprocated. The mechanical tissueremoval elements can have abrasives, such as a diamond or oxide coating.

The blades can have various shapes, sizes and configurations. The bladescan coact, for example, in a guillotine-type or scissor-type cuttingaction. The blades can be attached to or integral with the tissueremoval device. The blades can be formed by grinding, punching orstamping through the tissue removal device. The blades can be formed bygrinding of a punched or stamped edge of the tissue removal device. Theblades can be formed by a chemical etching process. The blades can havea 3-dimensional profile to facilitate cutting, for example, a bow or acorrugation or a ‘cheese grater’ profile. The blades can be placed atone or more angles relative to the direction of tissue removal. Theblades can be configured with the blade cutting across the tissue (i.e.,similar to a band saw). The blades can have cutting surfaces. Thecutting surfaces can be oriented in a single or multiple directions. Theblades can be serrated.

The saw can be a wire saw or saws. The wire saw can be a Gigli saw.Multiple wire saws or Gigli saws can be joined or woven together orflattened to form a substantially planar cutting surface. The wire sawcan be mounted on a flat ribbon. The ribbon can be a depth stop, forexample, limiting for saw penetration.

The tissue removal surface can have one or more powered mechanicaltissue removal elements. The powered mechanical tissue removal elementscan have, for example, band saws, belt shavers, rotary burrs or blades,reciprocating burrs or blades, or combinations thereof

The apparatus and methods can facilitate selective elimination ofpathological spinal tissue, thereby enabling symptomatic relief inpatients suffering from spinal stenosis.

A method for modifying spinal anatomy is disclosed. The method includesdelivering a surgical apparatus to an epidural space and surgicallyaltering tissues that impinge neural or vascular structures in thelateral recess, neural foramina or central canal of the spine with theapparatus. Surgically altering tissues can include ablating tissue,resecting tissue, removing tissue, abrading tissue, retracting tissue,stenting tissue, retaining tissue, or thermally shrinking tissue.Surgically altering tissues can additionally include enlarging thelateral recess, neural foramina or central canal of the spine.

Delivering the surgical apparatus to an epidural space can includedelivering an epidural needle to the epidural space, and enlarging thelateral recess, neural foramina or central canal of the spine caninclude focally altering tissue with tools delivered through theepidural needle. Delivering the surgical apparatus to an epidural spacealso can include delivering an epidural needle to the epidural space,and enlarging the lateral recess, neural foramina or central canal ofthe spine also can include focally altering tissue with tools deliveredthrough a working channel disposed adjacent to the epidural needle.

Delivering the surgical apparatus can include converting the epiduralneedle to an endoscope within the epidural space. Delivering thesurgical apparatus to an epidural space also can include delivering aworking endoscope to the epidural space, and enlarging the lateralrecess, neural foramina or central canal of the spine can also includefocally altering tissue with tools delivered through the workingendoscope. Delivering the surgical apparatus can also include convertingthe epidural needle into a blunt tipped instrument after placement ofthe needle's tip within the epidural space. Converting the epiduralneedle can also include threading an epidural catheter through theepidural needle into the epidural space, and covering the needle's tipwith an epidural needle cover delivered via the catheter.

Delivering the surgical apparatus can also include converting theepidural needle into an endoscope via a visualization element disposedwithin the epidural catheter. Delivering the surgical apparatus caninclude infusing fluid into the epidural space to improve visualization.Delivering the surgical apparatus can include inserting a removableworking channel alongside the surgical apparatus. Delivering thesurgical apparatus can include inserting a distal tip of a dual lumenedepidural needle into the epidural space and using at least one of thedual lumens as a working channel for the delivery of instruments intothe epidural space. Delivering the surgical apparatus can includeinserting an instrument chosen from the group consisting of a tissuecauterization tool, a tissue laser device, a radiofrequency deliverydevice, a ronguer, a tissue grasper, a tissue rasp, a probe, a bonedrill, a tissue shaver, a burr, a tissue sander and combinations thereofthrough the surgical apparatus.

Delivering the epidural needle can include inserting the epidural needleto a position with a tip of the needle in proximity to where treatmentwill be directed. Delivering the epidural needle can include insertingthe epidural needle at an interspace below the level of the spine wherethe treatment will be directed.

Delivering surgical apparatus can include delivering the apparatus viaan open surgical route. Delivering the epidural needle can includedelivering the needle via a posterior, interlaminar percutaneous route.Delivering the epidural needle can include delivering the needle via aposterior, translaminar, percutaneous route. Delivering the epiduralneedle can include delivering the needle via a posterior, midline,interspinous, percutaneous route. Delivering the epidural needle caninclude delivering the needle via a percutaneous route through theneural foramen from its lateral aspect. Enlarging can include placing amechanical barrier or backstop between tissue to be resected andadjacent neural or vascular structures. The barrier can be steerable.

The method of modifying the spinal anatomy can include confirming properplacement of the surgical apparatus. Confirming proper placement caninclude confirming proper placement with a nerve stimulator. Confirmingproper placement with a nerve stimulator further comprises confirmingproper placement with stimulation leads placed on a tissue remodelingside of the surgical apparatus. The method of modifying the spinalanatomy can include confirming proper placement of the surgicalapparatus or barrier with a nerve stimulator having stimulation leadsplaced on a tissue remodeling side of the barrier or on a back side ofthe barrier.

The method of modifying the spinal anatomy can include monitoring nervestimulation with the nerve stimulator via somatosensory evokedpotentials (SSEPs). The method of modifying the spinal anatomy caninclude monitoring nerve stimulation with the nerve stimulator via motorevoked potentials (MEPs). The method of modifying the spinal anatomy caninclude monitoring nerve stimulation with the nerve stimulator via motorevoked patient movement. The method of modifying the spinal anatomy caninclude monitoring nerve stimulation via verbal patient sensory responseto the nerve stimulator.

The method of modifying the spinal anatomy can include monitoringenlargement via imaging. The method of modifying the spinal anatomy caninclude surgically altering the tissues under fluoroscopic imaging, MRIimaging, CT imaging., ultrasound imaging, radiological imaging, surgicaltriangulation, infrared or RF surgical triangulation.

The method of modifying the spinal anatomy can include placing anelement that provides tissue compression of surgically remodeled tissueor bone surface in order to enlarge the neural pathway or foraminapost-surgical enlargement. The method of modifying the spinal anatomycan include placing an element that provides tissue compression andretention in order to remodel tissue or bone surface in order to enlargethe neural pathway or foramina de novo. Placing the element can includeplacing the element using a percutaneous technique via the epiduralspace, through a neural foramen at a level to be treated for spinalstenosis, and around a facet complex or a lamina adjacent to the facetcomplex. The method of modifying the spinal anatomy can includetightening the element to a determined tension. Placing the element caninclude placing an element having a posterior anchor that is a cord ortie looped through a hole that has been drilled in the cephalad laminaof the immediately adjacent vertebrae. The method of modifying thespinal anatomy can include tensioning the element to a determined levelvia a tension gauge or other measurement device element holding tensionagainst the tissue to be remodeled.

The method of modifying the spinal anatomy can include releasing abiologically active material for the purposes of decreasinginflammation, or promoting remodeling of soft tissue or bone growth fromthe element.

Apparatus for focal tissue alteration are disclosed herein. Theapparatus have an element configured for placement into an epiduralspace, and surgical tools configured for delivery through the elementinto the epidural space to remodel spinal anatomy that impinges uponneural, neurovascular or tendon structures. The element can include anepidural needle, and wherein the surgical tools further comprise atissue remodeling device configured for placement via the epiduralneedle.

The epidural needle can be configured for placement into the epiduralspace via an approach chosen from the group consisting of a posteriorinterspinal midline approach, a posterior paramedian interlaminarapproach, a posterior translaminar paramedian approach through a hole inthe lamina, a neural foramina approach around an anterior border of afacet joint, and combinations thereof. The epidural needle can includetwo adjacent lumens, the second lumen configured to act as a workingchannel for the delivery of the surgical tools into the epidural space.

The apparatus can have an epidural catheter configured to convert theepidural needle into a blunt tipped instrument via an epidural needletip cover that may be opened and then pulled back to cover the needle'stip. The epidural catheter can have a fiberoptic cable forvisualization. The apparatus can have an insertable and removableworking channel for tool access configured for placement alongside theneedle.

The tissue remodeling device can be chosen from the group consisting ofa tissue cauterization tool, a tissue laser device, a radiofrequencydelivery device, a ronguer, a tissue grasper, a tissue rasp, a probe, abone drill, a tissue shaver, a burr, a tissue sander, and combinationsthereof.

The surgical tools can produce nerve stimulation. The apparatus can havea device for monitoring neural stimulation to identify when a workingsurface of the surgical tools is in close proximity to vulnerable neuraltissue during tissue remodeling.

An apparatus for protecting adjacent structures during remodeling ofspinal anatomy that impinges upon neural, neurovascular or tendonstructures is disclosed. The apparatus has a mechanical barrierconfigured for placement between tissue to be resected and the adjacentstructures. The mechanical barrier can be configured for insertionthrough an open incision. The mechanical barrier can be configured forinsertion through a working channel of an endoscope.

The apparatus can be configured for use with a visualization element.The visualization element can be chosen from the group consisting of anepidural endoscope, a fluoroscope, ultrasound, XRay, MRI andcombinations thereof. The apparatus can have a nerve stimulator tofacilitate proper placement of the barrier. A conductive element can beincluded on a tissue modification side of the barrier or on a backsideof the barrier to facilitate nerve localization. A working surface ofthe tissue remodeling device can have neurostimulation capabilities,thereby allowing for a positive and negative control in localizingneural tissue prior to tissue removal.

The apparatus can include a monitoring technique for monitoringelectrical nerve stimulation. The monitoring technique can be chosenfrom the group consisting of SSEPs (somatosensory evoked potentials);MEPs (motor evoked potentials); EMG; verbal inquiries of the patient'ssensory experience to the electrical stimulation; visual techniques,mechanical techniques, tactile techniques monitoring neuro muscularstimulation and movement, and combinations thereof.

The apparatus can include an element configured to provide tissuecompression against surgically remodeled tissue or bone surface in aneural pathway or foramina post-enlargement. The element is configuredfor percutaneous placement via the epidural space, through theneuroforamen at the level to be treated for spinal stenosis, and aroundthe facet complex or the lamina adjacent to the facet complex. Theelement is configured to release a biologically active material for thepurposes of decreasing inflammation, or promoting remodeling of softtissue or bone growth.

The apparatus can be configured for tightening to a determined tensionfor purposes of relieving spinal stenosis. The element can include aposterior anchor having a cord or tie looped through a hole that hasbeen drilled in the cephalad lamina of the immediately adjacentvertebrae. Tension of the element is configured to be set at adetermined level by a tension gauge, or other measurement device elementholding tension against tissue to be remodeled.

The apparatus can have a neuro foraminal compression element configuredto retract and hold pressure on spinal tissue when placed under tension,in order to relieve pressure on impinged neural and vascular structuresand promote tissue remodeling. The apparatus can have a tensioningdevice for the neuro foraminal compression element configured to securetwo ends of the element together at a posterior aspect of the vertebrallamina at a desired tension by pulling the element to the desired levelof tension prior to locking the opposite ends of the element together atsaid tension.

The apparatus can have a tensioning device configured to tighten a loopformed by the neuro foraminal compression element around the facet jointcomplex, within the lateral aspect of the lamina, and configured totighten the compression element across a locking or crimping element toa specified tension, pulling the ligamentum flavum posteriorly in thespinal canal, in the lateral recess and in the neural foramen.

The apparatus can have a tensioning device configured to tighten a loopformed by the neural foraminal compression element around the lamina,close to a facet joint complex, within a lateral aspect of the lamina,and configured to tighten the compression element across a locking orcrimping element to a specified tension, pulling the ligamentum flavumposteriorly in the spinal canal, in the lateral recess and in the neuralforamen.

At least one free end of the neural foraminal compression element can beconfigured for subcutaneous placement to facilitate future removal ofthe element. The compression element can be biodegradable.

The compression element can contain a therapeutic agent chosen from thegroup consisting of medications, bioactive compounds, steroids, depotsteroids, anti-inflammatories, and combinations thereof The agent can beconfigured for immediate release. The agent can be configured forsustained local delivery.

A method of altering bone or soft tissue in a patient is disclosed. Themethod includes placing a tissue abrasion device through tissue to bealtered, holding the tissue abrasion device under tension to bring anabrasive surface of the device firmly against the tissue to be altered,and sliding the abrasive surface of the abrasive element against thetissue to be altered, thereby altering bone or soft tissue immediatelyadjacent to the abrasive surface. Altering can include abrading,removing, or remodeling.

Placing the tissue abrasion device through tissue to be altered caninclude placing the device through spinal tissue that impinges onneural, neurovascular or ligamentous structures in the patient's spine.Placing the tissue abrasion device can include placing the tissueabrasion device through a neural, neurovascular, or ligamentous pathwaywithin the patient's spine, holding the tissue abrasion device undertension to bring the abrasive surface against tissue within the pathway,and where sliding includes enlarging the pathway via frictional abrasionof the tissue. Placing a tissue abrasion device through the pathway caninclude placing the tissue abrasion device through neural foramina ofthe patient's spine and around the anterior border of a facet joint.Placing the tissue abrasion device through neural foramina of thepatient's spine and around the anterior border of a facet joint caninclude placing the device via a route chosen from the group consistingof an open surgical approach, a percutaneous approach, a posteriorpercutaneous approach, an interlaminar percutaneous approach, atranslaminar percutaneous approach, an interspinous percutaneousapproach, through the neural foramen from a lateral direction, andcombinations thereof. Placing the tissue abrasion device can includeplacing the device within a protective sheath or cover.

The method can include altering spinal tissues that impinge on neural,neurovascular, or ligamentous structures in the patient's spine.

Enlarging the pathway can include enlarging a diseased pathway withinthe patient's spine.

Holding the tissue abrasion device under tension against tissue withinthe pathway can include placing an abrasive surface of the tissueabrasion device against tissue chosen from the group consisting of ananterior surface of facet joint capsule, a medial surface of facet jointcapsule, a superior articular process of the facet joint, ligamentumflavum, tissues attached to ligamentum flavum, extruded spinal discmaterial, scar tissue, and combinations thereof.

Sliding the tissue abrasion device against the tissue can includesliding the abrasive surface of the tissue abrasion device against thetissue. Sliding the abrasive surface can include enlarging the lateralrecess, neural foramina or central spinal canal via frictional abrasion.Sliding the abrasive surface can include preferentially abrading tissuechosen from the group consisting of ligamentum flavum, bone spurs, facetcapsule, superior articular process, extruded spinal disc material, scartissue and combinations thereof that impinge on neural or vascularstructures.

The method can include confirming proper placement of the tissueabrasion device. Confirming proper placement of the device can includeconfirming proper placement with a nerve stimulator. Confirming properplacement with a nerve stimulator can include confirming properplacement with a nerve stimulator having stimulation leads placed at alocation chosen from the group consisting of a non-abrasive side of thetissue abrasion device, a back side of a protective sleeve or coverplaced over the tissue abrasion device, an abrasive side of the tissueabrasion device, a working side of the tissue abrasion device, andcombinations thereof. Confirming proper placement can include confirmingplacement via a modality chosen from the group consisting offluoroscopic, MRI, CT, infrared, ultrasound imaging, surgicaltriangulation, and combinations thereof.

The method can include monitoring nerve stimulation viasomatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEPs) with the nerve stimulator. Themethod can include monitoring nerve stimulation via motor-evokedpotentials (MEPs) with the nerve stimulator. The method can includemonitoring nerve stimulation via verbal patient sensory response to thenerve stimulator.

The method can include replacing the tissue abrasion device with acompression element that is held against altered tissue or bone.

Apparatus for the removal of impinging soft tissue or bone within apatient are disclosed. The apparatus can have a tissue abrasion deviceconfigured for placement through impinged tissue pathways. The tissueabrasion device can have an abrasive surface configured for placementadjacent to the impinging tissue. The impinged tissue pathways can havepathways chosen from the group consisting of neural pathways,neurovascular pathways, ligamentous pathways, and combinations thereof.The tissue abrasion device can be configured for the removal of spinalstructures that impinge neural or neurovascular tissues within thepatient, and wherein the tissue abrasion device is configured forplacement through neural foramina of the patient's spine and around theanterior border of a facet joint.

The apparatus can have a protective cover disposed about the tissueabrasion device, where the protective cover is configured to limitexposure of an abrasive surface of the device to areas where tissueremoval is desired. The apparatus can have a nerve stimulator incommunication with the tissue abrasion device to facilitate properplacement of the device.

The apparatus can have a conductive element disposed on an abrasivesurface of the device to enable nerve localization by sending a smallelectrical current through the conductive element.

The apparatus can have an epidural needle, where the tissue abrasiondevice is configured for placement through the epidural needle.

The apparatus can have a visualization element for direct visualizationof the neural foramina. The apparatus can have a neural foraminacompression element.

The compression element can be configured to promote hemostasis anddesired tissue remodeling during healing. The element can be configuredto be left in place after being secured with adequate tension againsttissue abraded with the tissue abrasion device. The compression elementcan be configuredto protect a tissue surface abraded with the device.The compression element can be configured to prevent adhesions duringhealing. The compression element can be configured to protect vulnerablestructures adjacent to tissue abraded with the tissue abrasion devicefrom an inflammatory response triggered by tissue abrasion.

The tissue abrasion device can be configured for placement in front of,across, and then behind tissue to be abraded, such as through anaturally occurring or artificially created anatomical foramen or tissuepathway. The abrasive surface can be disposed on all or part of one sideof the tissue abrasion device. The abrasive surface can be disposed onan element chosen from the group consisting of a length of ribbon,strap, cable, belt, cord, string, suture, wire and combinations thereof.The ends of the device can be configured for manual grasping. Theapparatus can have a handle to which ends of the device are attached formanual grasping. The device can be configured for attachment to anelectromechanical power-driven device.

The device can be configured to be placed under tension in order tobring the abrasive surface into contact with tissue to be removed. Theabrasive surface can be configured to be pulled against tissue to beremoved. The abrasive device can have multiple abrasive elements withdifferent abrasive surfaces, configured for interchangeable use. Themultiple abrasive elements can have varying grades of abrasive material.The multiple abrasive elements can have different grooves, patterns ofgrooves, or material patterns on the abrasive surface to facilitatepreferential abrasion of tissue at desired locations. The patterns ofgrooves can have diagonal parallel grooves that preferentially move theabrasive element towards one direction on the surface being abraded asthe abrasive element is pulled in one direction, and towards an opposingdirection as the abrasive element is pulled in a second direction. Themultiple abrasive elements can have different shapes that guide theextent and location of tissue removal.

The apparatus can be configured to carry debris away from the site oftissue removal.

The tissue abrasion device can vary in profile along its length. Thetissue abrasion device can have openings that facilitate passage ofdebris behind the device for storage or removal.

The apparatus can have a monitor for monitoring. electrical nervestimulation with the nerve stimulator. The monitor can be configured tomonitor a feedback chosen from the group consisting of SSEPs, MEPs, EMG,verbal communication of patient sensation, visual monitoring, mechanicalmonitoring, tactile means, monitoring of neuromuscular stimulation andmovement, and combinations thereof.

The compression element can be biodegradable. The compression elementcan contain a therapeutic agent configured for delivery to abradedtissue or adjacent neural and neurovascular structures. The therapeuticagent can be a medication, bioactive compound, steroid, depot steroid,anti-inflammatory, adhesion barrier, procoagulant compound, orcombination thereof.

The protective cover can be attached, external to the patient, to asuspension system that includes elements to firmly and individuallygrasp each end of the cover and hold it in position under tensionagainst the tissue surface to be abraded, with an open portion of thecover exposing the abrasive element directly over tissue to be abraded.The protective cover can be configured to protect a non-abrasive side ofthe tissue abrasion device. The protective cover can have channels alongits lateral aspects for the insertion and sliding of the tissue abrasiondevice. The protective cover can include channels along its lateralaspects for the insertion and sliding of a second protective coverconfigured for placement between an abrasive surface of the tissueabrasion device, and tissue adjacent to tissue to be abraded with theabrasive surface.

Apparatus for selective surgical removal of tissue is disclosed. Theapparatus can have an access element, a neural protection element, and atissue removal device. The apparatus can have a neural localizationelement. The neural localization element can be integrated into theneural protection element. The apparatus can have debris removalelements. The apparatus can have hemostasis elements.

The access element can be a cannulated probe, ball-tip probe, elevator,epidural needle, epidural probe, epidural endoscope, curved tube, curvedcannula, guide wire, straight guide wire, curved guide wire, orcombination thereof.

The neural protection element can be an element configured for deliveryvia the access element. The neural protection element can be configuredfor transforaminal placement between impinging tissue and a nerve root.The access element can be configured for transforaminal placement. Theneural protection element can have a sheath having a window. The tissueremoval device can be configured for placement within the sheath suchthat tissue removal elements disposed on a tissue removal surface of thedevice are locally exposed within the window. The window can beconfigured for transforaminal placement.

The tissue removal device can be configured for transforaminal placementbetween the neural protection element and the impinging tissue. Thetissue removal device can be a tissue removal surface having tissueremoval element configured to remove the impinging tissue. The tissueremoval elements can be powered tissue removal elements, non-poweredtissue removal elements, mechanical tissue removal elements, cuttingtissue removal elements, abrasive tissue removal elements,electrosurgical tissue removal elements, blades, punched features,stamped features, etched features, ground features, sharpened features,electrodes, monopolar electrodes, bipolar electrodes, or combinationsthereof.

A method for selective surgical removal of tissue is disclosed. Themethod can include accessing a spinal neural foramen having impingingtissue, placing a neural protection element transforaminally between theimpinging tissue and an underlying nerve root, placing a tissue removaldevice transforaminally between the impinging tissue and the neuralprotection element; and selectively removing the impinging tissue withthe tissue removal device.

Accessing the spinal neural foramen can include accessing the neuralforamen via an open surgical approach. Accessing the spinal neuralforamen can include accessing the neural foramen via a percutaneousapproach. Accessing the spinal neural foramen can include placing aguide wire transforaminally.

Placing the neural protection element transforaminally can includeplacing the neural protection element via the guide wire. Placing thetissue removal device transforaminally can include placing the tissueremoval device via the neural protection element.

Selectively removing the impinging tissue can include mechanicallycutting the tissue. Selectively removing the impinging tissue caninclude mechanically abrading the tissue. Selectively removing theimpinging tissue can include electrosurgically removing the tissue.

The method can include, prior to selective removal of the impingingtissue, confirming proper placement of the neural protection element andthe tissue removal device. Confirming proper placement can includelocalizing the nerve root with a stimulation waveform.

The method can include removing debris generated during selective tissueremoval. The method can include stanching bleeding from the site ofselective tissue removal. The method can include removing the neuralprotection element and the tissue removal device from the neuralforamen.

A method for selective surgical removal of tissue is disclosed. Themethod can include accessing impinging tissue, placing a neuralprotection element transforaminally between the impinging tissue and anunderlying nerve root, placing a tissue removal device between theimpinging tissue and the neural protection element, and selectivelyremoving the impinging tissue with the tissue removal device.

An apparatus for selectively removing a first tissue adjacent to asecond tissue is disclosed. The apparatus can have a tissue removaldevice and a tissue protection device, where the tissue protectiondevice can have a first side and a second side, where the first side isconfigured to deliver a first electrical stimulation, and the secondside is configured to deliver a second electrical stimulation. Theapparatus can have an atraumatic access device.

The tissue protection device can be configured to prevent the removal ofthe second tissue. The tissue removal device can have an RF device. Thetissue removal device can have an electrical textile conductor. Thetissue removal device can have an ablation needle. The tissue removaldevice can have a conductive wire loop. The tissue removal device canhave a mechanical tissue removal device. The tissue removal device canbe slidably attached to the tissue protection device. The tissue removaldevice can be attached by a rail to the tissue protection device. Themechanical tissue removal device can be configured to reciprocate toremove tissue.

An apparatus for selectively removing a first tissue adjacent to asecond tissue is disclosed. The apparatus can have a tissue removaldevice comprising a first tissue removal element and a second tissueremoval element, where the first tissue removal element is configured toremove tissue in a first direction, the second tissue removal element isconfigured to remove tissue in a second direction, and the firstdirection is substantially opposite the second direction. The firsttissue removal element can have a first leading edge and a first scoop,the first leading edge can be adjacent or integral with the first scoop,and the first leading edge can be configured to deliver energy. Theenergy can have RF. The first leading edge can have a beveledconfiguration.

An apparatus for selectively removing a first tissue adjacent to asecond tissue is disclosed. The apparatus can have a tissue removaldevice comprising a first tissue removal element, the first tissueremoval element ca have a first leading edge and a first scoop, thefirst leading edge can be adjacent or integral with the first scoop, andthe first leading edge can be configured to emit energy. The firstleading edge can have a dull edge.

The energy can have RF. The energy can have mechanical vibrations. Theenergy can have acoustic energy. The energy can have ultrasound energy.The first tissue and the second tissue can be spinal tissue.

The apparatus can have a tissue protection device comprising a firstside and a second side, the first side can be configured to deliver afirst electrical stimulation, and the second side can be configured todeliver a second electrical stimulation.

The tissue removal device can be slidably attached to the tissueprotection device.

An apparatus for damaging a first spinal tissue and preserving a secondspinal tissue adjacent to the first spinal tissue is disclosed. Theapparatus can have a tissue removal device comprising a first tip and abody, the tip can be configured to transmit an energy to the firstspinal tissue, and the body can be configured to not transmit energy.The energy can have RF.

A method for damaging a first spinal tissue and preserving a secondspinal tissue adjacent to the first spinal tissue is disclosed. Themethod can include inserting a needle through the first spinal tissuewhere the needle can have a body and a tip, placing the tip into thesecond spinal tissue where the body is in the second spinal tissue, andemitting an energy through the tip.

The method can include suctioning through the tip. The body can emit noenergy. The second tissue can have a tissue surface. The energy can havean electrical energy. The energy can have RF energy. The energy can haveacoustic energy. The energy can have ultrasound energy.

A method for damaging a target spinal tissue is disclosed. The methodcan include deploying a tissue protection barrier adjacent to the targetspinal tissue, where the tissue protection barrier can have a first sideand a second side. The method can include monitoring electrical signalsagainst the first side, delivering an electrical signal through the backside, and reciprocating a tissue removal device against the spinaltissue.

The tissue protection barrier can have a window, and the method caninclude positioning the window adjacent to the target spinal tissue. Thewindow can be on the first side. The tissue protection barrier can havea lubricious coating.

The tissue removal device can be in the tissue protection barrier. Thetissue removal device can be slidably attached to the tissue protectionbarrier. The tissue removal device comprises a lubricious coating. Thetissue removal device can emit an energy. The energy can have RF. Thetissue removal device can have a scoop. The tissue removal device canhave a spring. The method can include deploying energy to the targettissue through the spring.

Finally, the present invention also describes methods and apparatus thatpromote tissue remodeling, separate from the tissue resection orablation. These devices tightly wrap, retract, or hold in position,under tension, impinging tissues within the spinous posterior elements.

It is expected that the apparatus and methods of the present inventionwill facilitate a minimally invasive approach to the selectiveelimination of pathological spinal tissue, thereby enabling symptomaticrelief in patients suffering from spinal stenosis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other objects and advantages of the present invention willbe apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description,taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which likereference characters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross section through the posterior aspect of the lumbarspine;

FIG. 2 is a sagittal section through the lumbar spine;

FIGS. 3 a, b, c are sagittal views through a patient's spine,illustrating a prior art method for epidural needle insertion, a loss ofresistance method;

FIG. 3 a illustrates a needle inserted to an interspinal ligament.

FIG. 3 b illustrates constant pressure applied on the syringe plunger.

FIG. 3 c illustrates saline injected into the epidural space.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine, illustratingtwo prior art variations of the method of FIGS. 3 a, b, c;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine, illustratinga prior art open surgical technique for neuroforaminal decompression;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of standard Touhy epidural needle tips;

FIG. 7 are schematic side views illustrating a method and apparatus, inaccordance with the present invention, for covering with a cap andblunting the sharp tip of the epidural needle post-insertion;

FIG. 8 are also a schematic side view of variations of the apparatus ofFIG. 7 with a method for also limiting the depth of insertion of thecannula or needle;

FIG. 9 are schematic side views illustrating a method and apparatus inaccordance with the present invention for covering with a cap andblunting the tip of the epidural needle post-insertion, and optionallyconverting the epidural needle to an epidural endoscope, for safefurther advancement of the needle into the epidural space;

FIG. 10 are also a schematic side view of variations of the apparatus ofFIG. 9;

FIG. 11 are also a schematic side view of variations of the apparatus ofFIG. 7;

FIG. 12 are also a schematic side view of variations of the apparatus ofFIG. 9;

FIGS. 13 a, b, c are schematic side views of variations of the apparatusof FIG. 7 or 9;

FIGS. 13 d, e are schematic side views of an epidural portal over needleapparatus, as shown in FIGS. 13 a, b, c; with a distal anchor engagedanterior to the ligamentum flavum, when the portal has been insertedover the needle, into the epidural space;

FIG. 14 is a schematic side view of variations of the apparatus of FIG.9;

FIG. 15 a is a schematic side view, partially in section, of variationsof the apparatus, illustrating methods of safely utilizing the apparatusfor safe placement and use of surgical tools in or around the epiduralspace;

FIG. 15 b is a side view, partially in section, illustrating a methodand apparatuses for safe placement of a tool or working channel into theepidural space;

FIG. 16 is a side view illustrating apparatuses that include a doublebarreled epidural needle, with the epidural needle as the most distalpoint, and with the working channel the more proximal tip. This systemmay also be converted to an endoscope and may be used for safe placementof instruments into the epidural space;

FIGS. 17-19 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating a method and apparatus for placement of a double barreledepidural needle or endoscope, the sharp tip of which has been covered inFIG. 18, and thereby blunted, for safe advancement towards the lateralrecess and neural foramina. The blunted epidural needle apparatus maycontain a fiberoptic cable for direct visualization, in a preferredembodiment;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine thatillustrates a method, following FIGS. 17-19, for placement of a workingbackstop or barrier into the lateral recess and/or neural foramina. Thebarrier or backstop may contain conductive elements for nervestimulation and neural localization;

FIGS. 21-22 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine thatillustrate alternative methods and apparatuses for placement of aworking backstop or barrier to enable safe tissue resection, ablation,abrasion or remodeling;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine thatillustrates a tool inserted through the working channel (example shows ashaver or burr), with its tip in position for tissue removal ordebridement, adjacent to a protective working backstop or barrier.

FIG. 24A are schematic views of a working backstop or barrier apparatus,including an optional rail for controlled tool placement in relation tothe barrier, and an optional conductive element for neural stimulationand localization.

FIG. 24 b is a frontal view from above;

FIG. 24 c is a front view;

FIG. 24 d is a frontal view of the working backstop or barrier apparatusfolded for compact delivery;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine thatillustrates a methods and apparatuses for providing neural stimulationand neural localization, within a working backstop or barrier, and/orwithin a tool (a bone burr placed adjacent to a spinal bone spur in thelateral recess, in this illustrative example), for safety in tissueresection, abrasion or remodeling;

FIG. 26A is a schematic view of apparatus of the present invention forobtaining open surgical access;

FIGS. 26B-26E are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating open surgical methods of using the apparatus of FIG. 26A toobtain access;

FIGS. 27A and 27B are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating a variation of the methods and apparatus of FIG. 26

FIGS. 28-35 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating a method and apparatus for selective surgical removal oftissue;

FIGS. 36-39 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating a variation of the method and apparatus of FIGS. 28-35;

FIGS. 40 a-40 d are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating another variation of the method and apparatus of FIGS.28-35;

40E are a detailed view and a close up of the cross section of theapparatus used in FIG. 40 d;

FIG. 41 is a schematic view of a rotary variation of the tissue removaldevice that may be powered or operated manually and FIG. 42 is analternative embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 41;

FIG. 42 is an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 41;

FIGS. 43-48 are partial cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating a double barrel system used with additional methods andapparatus for placement of an abrasion apparatus through the neuralforamina for selective surgical removal of tissue;

FIGS. 49-61 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating a variation of the methods and apparatus of FIGS. 43-48;

FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating a methods and apparatus that, under tension, anchors andsuspends the working sheath or protective sleeve that covers theneuroforaminal abrasion device;

FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating a method and apparatus that, under tension, provides apercutaneous compression dressing over the abraded area. In thisillustration, the compression dressing is the same working sheath orprotective sleeve that had covered the neuroforaminal abrasion device;

FIG. 64 is a schematic cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating a method and apparatus for achieving neural localizationduring use of the tissue abrasion apparatus;

FIG. 65 are schematic views of additional apparatus, showing a spool orreel to reel configuration of a portion of the device that may beutilized for selective surgical removal of tissue;

FIGS. 66-73 are schematic cross-sectional views through a patient'sspine of a method and apparatus for a posterior midline or paramedianapproach to placement of a posterior elements compression, retraction orretention device around the facet complex, through the neural foramina;

FIG. 74 are schematic cross-sectional views through a patient's spineillustrating a posterior lateral approach to placement of the spinalcompression, retraction or retention apparatuses;

FIG. 75 are schematic cross-sectional views through a patient's spine ofa fully implanted compression or retraction remodeling apparatus orcompression dressing apparatus;

FIG. 76 is a schematic cross-sectional view through a patient's spine ofan apparatuses for a compression remodeling strap integrated with aworking backstop or barrier.

FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine that shows afacet drill with a ligament retraction device around a working backstop,and demonstrates a image guided drill used in conjunction with thebackstop;

FIGS. 78-81 are schematic views of cable strap configurations fortemporary removable, permanent, or biodegradable compression dressingsor remodeling tools;

FIGS. 82-83 are schematic cross-sectional and lateral views through apatient's spine of apparatuses for temporary or permanent retraction andretention of the ligamentum flavum;

FIG. 84 are sagittal cryosection images through 3 cadaveric spines(courtesy of Wolfgang Rauschning, MD) that illustrate pathologicalanterior bulging and “buckling” of the ligamentum flavum, encroaching onthe spinal canal or lateral recess, a frequent contributing factor inspinal stenosis. In circumstances when similarly protruding ligamentumflavum impinges neural and neurovascular structures in the spinal canal,lateral recess, or neural foramina, then retraction of said ligaments,as in FIGS. 79 and 80 may be beneficial to the patient;

FIG. 85 are cross-sectional views through a protective sleeve or sheath,compact during insertion (b), and expanded (c) by passing the apparatusthrough its lumen;

FIG. 86 are schematic views of additional apparatus that may be utilizedfor selective surgical removal of tissue;

FIG. 87 are schematic views of additional apparatus that may be utilizedfor selective surgical removal of tissue, and subsequently as acompression dressing, with the ability to act as a therapeutic drugdepot;

FIG. 88 are schematic views of additional apparatus that may be utilizedfor selective surgical removal of tissue;

FIG. 89 is a schematic view of an additional apparatus that may beutilized for selective surgical removal of tissue;

FIG. 90 are schematic views of close-ups of the additional apparatusthat may be utilized for selective surgical removal of tissue of FIG.89;

FIGS. 91A-91E are, respectively, a detail view of the working side of aneural protection element, a detail view of the tissue removal surfaceof a tissue removal device, an assembly view of the neural protectionelement and the tissue removal device, a cross-sectional view of theelement and device along section line A—A of FIG. 91C, and across-sectional view of the element and device along section along B—Bof FIG. 91D;

FIGS. 92A-92H are schematic views of additional variations of mechanicaltissue removal elements;

FIGS. 93A-93C are views of a variation of the tissue removal devicecomprising electrosurgical tissue removal elements;

FIG. 94 is a schematic view of another variation of electrosurgicaltissue removal elements;

FIG. 95 is a schematic view of another variation of electrosurgicaltissue removal elements;

FIG. 96 is a schematic view of a variation of the tissue removal devicecomprising both mechanical and electrosurgical tissue removal elements;

FIG. 97 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating a variation of methods and apparatus for selectiveelectrosurgical removal of tissue;

FIGS. 98A-98C are schematic views of a depth-limited variation of thetissue removal device;

FIGS. 99A and 99B are schematic views of a fenestrated, depth-limitedvariation of the tissue removal device;

FIGS. 100A and 100B are a schematic view and a detail view of anothervariation of the tissue removal device.

FIG. 101 is a schematic view of a variation of the tissue removal deviceconfigured for selective removal of tissue via manual reciprocation;

FIG. 102 is a schematic view of a variation of the tissue removal deviceconfigured for unidirectional removal of tissue;

FIGS. 103-108 are schematic lateral views of additional apparatus thatmay be utilized for visualization in the epidural space, enabling theselective surgical removal of tissue;

FIG. 103 illustrate an embodiment of an endoscope in a clear tippedcannula;

FIG. 104 illustrate an embodiment of a 0-degree endoscope rotated inunison with a curved, clear tipped carinula;

FIG. 105 illustrate an embodiment of a 30-degree endoscope rotatedseparately inside of a clear tipped cannula;

FIGS. 106 a-c illustrate various embodiments of a clear tipped cannulawith a clear shaft;

FIGS. 106 d-f illustrate various embodiments of a clear tipped cannulawith an opaque shaft;

FIG. 107 illustrate an embodiment of a clear tipped cannula with aflexible neck;

FIG. 108 illustrates an embodiment of an endoscope with a built-in clearcover (e.g., a combination device embodiment);

FIGS. 109-114 are schematic lateral views of similar apparatus forvisualization in the epidural space, along with additional method andapparatus that enable the safe placement and use of tools for selectivesurgical ablation, resection, abrasion and remodeling of tissue;

FIG. 109 illustrate various embodiments of a clear tipped cannula with afree adjacent tool;

FIG. 110 illustrate various embodiments of a clear tipped cannula withan attached adjacent tool;

FIG. 111 a illustrates an embodiment of a clear tipped cannula with aworking channel for a tool;

FIG. 111 b illustrates an embodiment of a clear tipped cannula with anerve stimulator at a working channel exit;

FIG. 112 illustrate various embodiments of cannulas with a nervestimulator at the tip (e.g., EMG sensors peripherally placed);

FIG. 113 illustrate various embodiments of a clear tipped cannula with anerve stimulator at a tip of the free tool; and

FIG. 114 illustrate various embodiments of a clear tipped cannula with anerve stimulator at a tip of the free or attached tool.

FIGS. 115-116 are cross-sectional views through the lumbar spine,illustrating a standard method for epidural needle and epidural catheterplacement;

FIGS. 117-118 are cross-sectional views through the lumbar spine,illustrating a method and apparatus that converts a sharp epiduralneedle into an atraumatic blunt instrument in the epidural space;

FIG. 119 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating advancement of the instrument into the lateral recess ofthe spine, adjacent or into the neural foramina;

FIG. 120 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating attachment of a neural stimulation and localization deviceto the apparatus (The neural monitoring apparatus is not shown);

FIGS. 121-122 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating advancement and in-situ enlargement of the tissueprotection barrier through the lateral recess and neural foramina,between the tissue to be removed and the neural structures to beprotected;

FIG. 123 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating placement of the energy delivery apparatus into theprotected working tissue removal space created by the neural protectionelement;

FIG. 124 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating delivery, to the pathologically impinging tissue, of energy(e.g. electrical, bipolar, monopolar, thermal, laser, cryo, ultrasound,microwave, etc.) in order to vaporize, destroy, break up, liquefy, orotherwise change the impinging tissue modulus for subsequent ease ofremoval of said pathologically impinging tissue;

FIGS. 125-126 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating the advancement and retraction of a guillotine bladethrough the pathologically impinging tissue and/or debris, for removal;

FIGS. 127-130 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating one example of possible steps for the removal of the energydelivery apparatus, neural protection element, epidural catheter andneedle.

FIG. 131 is a close-up view of an embodiment of section A of FIG. 121.

FIGS. 132 and 133 illustrate close-up perspective views of an embodimentof the working surface of the tissue protection barrier.

FIGS. 134 and 135 illustrate close-up views of various embodiments ofthe needlette tip.

FIGS. 136 and 137 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating placement of the energy delivery apparatus into theprotected working tissue removal space created by the neural protectionelement;

FIG. 138 is a close-up view of an embodiment of section B of FIG. 137.

FIG. 139 is a cross-sectional view through a patient's spine,illustrating a method of delivering energy (e.g. electrical, bipolar,monopolar, thermal, laser, cryo, ultrasound, microwave, etc.) to thepathologically impinging tissue;

FIGS. 140-142 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spine,illustrating an embodiment of a method of the retraction and removal ofthe surgical removal apparatus;

FIG. 143 is a close-up view of an embodiment of section C of FIG. 139.

FIG. 144 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the tissueremoval apparatus.

FIG. 145 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a method forusing the tissue removal apparatus.

FIGS. 146-153 illustrate embodiments of fixed rail shields,demonstrating dilating tips, distal wire anchor systems for addedability to pull tension across the impinging tissue, and combinedproximal and distal wire anchoring systems.

FIGS. 154-157 illustrate an embodiment of a method for using a flexibleor spreadable tissue protection barrier, demonstrating dual rails, whichare curved for advancement through the neural foramina, and, in thisexample, are joined by expandable back side protection. This exampledepicts the tissue removal element serving also as a dilator for therail and neural barrier system, as it is advanced between the spreadablerails.

FIG. 158 is a side perspective view with phantom see-through lines of anembodiment of the tissue removal device.

FIG. 159 is a side perspective view an embodiment of the tissue removaldevice.

FIG. 160 is a reversed close-up view of the bracketed section of thetissue removal device of FIG. 159.

FIGS. 161 and 162 illustrate close up views of an embodiment of a methodfor using the tissue removal device.

FIGS. 163-165 illustrate close up views of various embodiments thetissue removal device.

FIGS. 166 and 167 illustrate close up views of an embodiment of a methodfor using the tissue removal device.

FIGS. 168-171 are cross-sectional views through a patient's spineillustrating a method for deploying the distal wire.

FIGS. 172-174 are close up views of an embodiment of a method forremoving the tissue at, for example, section E of FIG. 171.

FIGS. 175-178 illustrate a method for deploying the tissue removaldevice.

FIGS. 179-180 illustrate an embodiment of section F of FIG. 175.

FIGS. 181-187 illustrate methods for deploying the tissue removaldevice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for the selectivesurgical alteration (e.g., removal and remodeling) of tissue thatimpinges upon spinal neural or vascular structures, with particularattention towards avoiding injury and/or trauma to the affected oradjacent neural, vascular and neurovascular structures. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to methods and apparatus forspinal lateral recess 108 and neural foraminal 110 enlargement, andcentral canal enlargement of the spine, in cases of neurovascularimpingement, through a novel approach to selective and safe enlargementof the pathologically narrow spinal neural foramen, impinged lateralrecess 108 and/or compromised central spinal canal. The approachincludes alteration of the tissues that pathologically impinge neuraland neurovascular structures in the spine. Impinging tissues to beremoved from or remodeled in the spine's central canal, lateral recess108, and neural foramen 110 may include, but are not limited to,ligamentum flavum 10; bone spurs or ligamentous calcifications;localized disc extrusions; enlarged facet joint complex 12, facetcapsule, superior articular processes; osteophytes, and scar tissue oradhesions.

The variations of the invention designed to treat spinal stenosis aresummarized in this paragraph, and described in greater detail in theparagraphs that follow. The methods begin with insertion of an epiduralneedle apparatus 2, which is converted, after placement in the epiduralspace, from a sharp tipped instrument, into a blunt tipped tool. Theblunt tool is manipulated within the epidural space 42, either underimage guidance; under direct vision with an accompanying epiduralendoscope; or under direct vision when the instrument itself is givenendoscopic function. The same blunt tipped epidural instrument may havean attached fixed or removable working channel. An additional apparatusof the current invention, a working backstop or barrier 134 that servesto protect adjacent vulnerable structures during the procedure, maysubsequently be inserted into the epidural space 42, as well as throughthe neural foramina 110, through the needle or endoscope or an adjacentworking channel. Safe resection, ablation, and remodeling may be furtherensured through the integration into the invention of electrical neuralstimulation and monitoring for localization, optionally availablethrough nerve stimulation functionality in the epidural instrument; theworking tools used through the needle or working channel; and/or theworking backstop. Finally, further variations of the device and methodenable the surgeon to remodel stenotic spinal anatomy, either aftertissue resection or as a stand-alone procedure, through the placement ofdevices for holding, retracting or retaining anatomic structures awayfrom vulnerable neural and neurovascular structures within the posteriorelements of the spine.

FIG. 1 shows the posterior elements of the spine in axial cross section.The epidural space 42 in the spine is consistently more accessible inits posterior most aspect, a fat filled zone most popular for safeepidural needle 2 placement, posterior to the dura mater 46. The dura 46covers and contains the central neural elements of the spine, includingthe spinal cord, nerve roots, and spinal fluid.

FIG. 2 illustrates the spine in sagittal section. The spine comprisesmultiple vertebrae each having spinous process 80, transverse processes,facet joint complex 12, and neural foramen 110. Pedicles form inferiorand superior boundaries of the neural formen 110 and are connected tothe spinous process by lamina. Interspinal ligaments 78 extend betweenadjacent spinous processes 80, while ligamentum flavum 10 connectadjacent lamina 122 and are separated from dura mater 46 and spinal cord(not shown) by epidural space 42. Dura mater 46 encapsulates the spinalcord as it runs down the spinal canal, as well as nerve roots 62 as theyexit through the lateral recesses 108 and neural foramen 110. Vertebralbodies and spinal discs are disposed anterior of the spinal cord.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show two of the most important anatomic structuresinvolved in the impingement of neural and neurovascular tissue in spinalstenosis—the ligamentum flavum 10 and the facet joint complex 12.

For posterior approaches to the lateral recess 108 and neural foramen110, the needle 2 is inserted at or one level below the spinalinterspace where tissue abrasion and removal is desired. The epiduralneedle 2 may be inserted into the epidural space 42, midline,ipsilateral, or contralateral to the area where the spinal canal,lateral recess 108 and/or neuroforaminal stenosis or impingement is tobe treated. Referring now to FIG. 3, a prior art method for epiduralneedle 2 insertion is shown, comprising a standard loss-of-resistancetechnique. Needle based device placement may be approached from eitherthe medial or the lateral side of the neural foramen 110. FIG. 3illustrate a midline interspinous approach to the posterior epiduralspace 42. Using this technique, a large bore (e.g. 12 to 18 gauge)epidural needle 2 is inserted into interspinal ligaments, and isdirected towards the posterior epidural space 42, while fluid (e.g.sterile saline) or air is compressed within the syringe 60, meetingresistance to injection. Upon entry of the needle tip into the epiduralspace 42, perhaps through the ligamentum flavum 10, there is a manuallyperceptible “loss of resistance” to the continued pressure on theplunger of the syringe, as the compressed fluid or air easily enters theepidural space 42, without resistance, signifying correct needle tipposition (i.e., placement). The epidural space 42 has a slight negativepressure. Alternative posterior epidural needle 2 entry approaches intothe epidural space 42 are illustrated in FIG. 4, including interlaminarparamedian and midline interspinous techniques, a preferred approach tothe medial side of the neural foramen 110 for epidural placement of theepidural needle 2. An alternative posterior translaminar approach, wherethe needle is placed through a hole in the lamina 122, is not shown. Theepidural space 42 may also be entered via a more lateral, neuroforaminalapproach to needle placement, as shown in FIG. 74. When interlaminaraccess is not possible (e.g. unusual cases when laminae 6 are tootightly approximated, even with flexion of the back), the epidural space42 may be entered via a translaminar burr hole using a drill designedfor safe epidural entry. Each of these approaches allows placement ofthe tip of epidural needle in the posterior epidural space 42. Asdiscussed, percutaneous access to the lateral recess 108 and neuralforamen 110 may be achieved from the epidural space.

With any percutaneous epidural approach, after a sterile prep and drape,the epidural needle's 2 sharp tip is inserted through the skin toperform a loss-of-resistance technique.

The epidural needle's 2 sharp tip is inserted through the skin until itbegins to engage the interspinous ligaments 78. Subsequently, a fluid orair filled (loss of resistance) syringe 60 is depressed and will meetresistance to injection, until the needle tip is advanced, through theligamentum flavum 10, entering the epidural space 42, which actually hasa slight negative pressure. There is a clear “loss of resistance” to thepressurized contents of the syringe 60, which occurs upon entering theepidural space 42, signifying correct needle tip placement.

When interlaminar access is not possible (e.g. unusual cases whenlaminae are too tightly approximated, even with flexion of the back),the epidural space 42 may be entered via a translarninar burr hole,using a drill designed for safe epidural entry. Each of these approachesallows placement of the epidural needle 2 tip in the posterior epiduralspace 42, poised for access to the lateral recess 108 and neural foramen110.

As seen in FIG. 5, the current surgical standard of care for treatingneuroforaminal stenosis comprises performing an open decompression via asurgical cut-down to access the stenosed lateral recess 108 and neuralforamen 110. All or a portion of the spinous process 80 or facet jointcomplex 12 may be removed in order to obtain access. Bone and/orligament from the recess 108 and the neural foramen 110 then may beremoved with Rongeur 494. A Woodson elevator or ball-tip probe may beused to determine the adequacy of decompression.

This prior art surgical procedure is imprecise and may not provide foran adequate decompression due to an inability to access all of theforamen 110. Furthermore, a risk of injuring nerve root 62 exists due toa lack of neural protection. Furtherstill, instability caused by theprocedure often necessitates spinal fusion.

After the epidural needle's 2 distal tip has been placed in theposterior epidural space 42, a specially designed epidural catheter 24is threaded through the needle 2. Once threaded into the epidural space42, the epidural catheter's unique epidural needle tip cover 36, locatedin the distal end of the epidural catheter 24 (with needle tip coveringcapabilities), is opened and pulled back to cover the sharp epiduralneedle 2 tip, locked in place, and thereby converts the needle to anon-sharp instrument. The needle, thus converted, may be manipulated andadvanced more safely in the epidural space. The blunted needle issubsequently advanced in a direction parallel to the dura 46, in agentle manner, taking care to avoid inadvertent dural, neural orvascular trauma. With reference to FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14,methods and apparatus for protecting, covering and blunting the sharptip of the epidural needle 2 post-insertion, and optionally convertingthe epidural needle 2 to an epidural endoscope 38, are described. Thecatheter apparatus 24 is inserted through the needle 2, and into theepidural space 42, as in FIGS. 7 b, 9 b, 10 a, 11 b, 12 b, 13 a, and 14c. The catheter tip may be converted to the open position by one ofseveral mechanisms, for example, the catheter illustrated in FIG. 6 hasa port 34 for injection of air or liquid, which drives (e.g., opens) theactuator for the catheter's (needle) tip (cover). By forcing air orfluid into port 34 in the epidural catheter 24, a portion of thecatheter's tip 36 may be expanded, as in FIGS. 7 b, 9 c, 10 b, 12 c, 13b, or 14 e, to inflate or otherwise open the needles protective cover orcap 36. In another variation, an alternative means of actuation of thecap system on the epidural catheter may be a wire or string that pullsthe cap into a new shape. For example, FIG. 13 demonstrate a slidingumbrella-like mechanism for actuation of the distal epidural catheterbased needle tip cover 36. FIG. 10B shows the epidural “needle cap” or“fiber cap” 36 in the opened position. In certain embodiments, thecatheter may next need to be pulled back proximally through the needle 2until, as in FIG. 10C, until the epidural needle cover 36 is engagedover the distal needle tip, protecting the dura 46, neural and vascularstructures from the sharp point of the needle 2, which is no longerexposed. Markings on the catheter will demonstrate to the surgeon thatthe catheter is in the correct position, allowing the blunted epiduralinstrument to be safely advanced.

Once the tip of the epidural needle 2 has been blunted or capped, and isno longer sharp, the needle may be move safely advanced within theepidural space, preferably in a direction parallel to the dura 46. Inone variation, the epidural needle tip is covered by the catheter baseddevice, then is advanced through the epidural space under image guidance(e.g. fluoroscopy, CT, x-ray, MRI, Ultrasound, etc.), towards the areawhere tissue resection, ablation or remodeling is to be performed.

In an alternative variation of the method and device, as in FIGS. 9, 10,12, and 14, the epidural catheter 24, in addition to a needle tip cover,also contains a fiberoptic cable 38, which enables conversion of theepidural needle 2 into an epidural endoscope 38. The fiberopticcomponent 38 of the catheter provides the surgeon with an ability todirectly visualize the epidural space 42. In a further variation of themethod, both fiberoptic visualization and image guidance may be usedconcurrently.

In this apparatus and method for enabling safe manipulation of theapparatus in the epidural space, an epidural needle 2 is first placed inthe posterior epidural space 42 in a similar manner to what wasdescribed above. With the needle tip in the epidural space 42, anepidural catheter 24 apparatus is used to deliver a cover 36 to thesharp epidural needle tip, converting the needle to a blunt instrument,as shown in FIGS. 7, 10, 12, and 13, for further atraumatic advancementof the apparatus into the epidural space 42. After the catheter 24 isadvanced through the epidural needle 2 into the epidural space 42, as inFIGS. 8 a and 10 a, a distal portion of the catheter is converted to ashape that will be used to cover the sharp epidural needle tip, asillustrated in FIG. 7 b. In one variation of the catheter, conversion ofthe catheter tip to its new shape is triggered via the injection offluid or air into an actuator within the catheter tip (FIGS. 7 b, c).Alternative embodiments of the tip cover 36 are actuated via wire orstring that is pulled to bring the tip into its new configuration, e.g.a standard umbrella-like mechanism (FIGS. 13 a, b, and c).

Once the cover 36 in the distal catheter 24 is opened, the catheter 24is gently pulled back until the needle tip is covered and therebyblunted. The capped needle is next carefully advanced within theepidural space 42, between the ligamentum flavum 10 and the dura 46,somewhat parallel to both, towards one of the neural foramen 110, withmuch less risk of inadvertent dural puncture. In order to furtherfacilitate safe advancement of the capped needle in the epidural space42, image guidance may be used. Additionally or alternatively, theepidural needle 2 may be converted to an epidural endoscope. Conversionto an endoscope may be performed by either converting the epiduralneedle 2 to an endoscope directly (“needlescope”), or by utilizing theepidural needle 2 to enable placement of an endoscope cannula or portal56, which will replace the needle 2. The needle 2 may be converted to anendoscope directly through use of the catheter 24 that is used to cover,blunt, or “safe” the epidural needle tip. The epidural catheteroptionally may contain a rigid or flexible fiberoptic element 38,through which the surgeon may view the epidural space 42, therebyconverting the epidural needle 2 into an epidural endoscope. The tip ofthe fiberoptic catheter 38 would, in such a case, be clear.

In a further variation of the apparatus and method, an epidural portal56 would allow interchangeable epidural endoscopes to be used to view orwork within the epidural space. An epidural needle 2 may be used toplace an endoscope portal 56, using one of the three following generalapproaches: (a) In one variation, a portal is an expandable catheterthat is delivered as a catheter through the epidural needle 2; (b) Inanother preferred embodiment, an epidural needle 2 may be inserted intothe epidural space, with a thin walled epidural cannula or portal 56already in place over it, similar to the method and apparatus ofstandard intravenous cannulation with IV catheters used today. Thistechnique would ideally be used in conjunction with the epidural needlemethod and apparatus, so that the needle may be advanced far enough tosafely also place the neck of the cannula 56 or portal 56, which is ashort distance proximal to the distal tip of the epidural needle 2, intothe epidural space. In order be able to safely advance the portal 56into the epidural space, the needle may be covered or blunted, asdescribed above, using a catheter that does not contain a fiberopticelement, as in FIG. 13. With the sharp tip covered, the needle may besubsequently advanced a few millimeters, until the distal tip of theportal has also been advanced into the epidural space 42; (c) In a thirdembodiment of the method and apparatus, the portal 56 may be insertedover a soft tipped flexible guidewire that has been placed through theepidural needle 2, analogous to the popular “Seldinger Technique” (astandard cannula over needle insertion approach to vascular access).

With reference to FIG. 15, additional variations of the apparatus ofFIG. 10 are described, illustrating methods of safely utilizing theapparatus, in combination with additional surgical tools. Safe toolaccess, for example, may be facilitated by the inclusion of either aworking channel 50 on epidural endoscope 56, or by sliding the toolalong a rail 52 and slot 58 interface on the epidural cannula or“needlescope” 56. FIG. 15A shows tool 54 (illustratively a grasper)fitted with rail 52 that mates with a slot 58 of epidural endoscope 56,so that it may be inserted directly into the epidural space 42 andplaced in the “safe zone” 44, without the need for a working channelalong endoscope/needle 56.

In FIG. 15B, working channel 50 is disposed along epidural needle 2,“needlescope”, or endoscope 56, e.g., is integrally formed with theendoscope or is positioned via a rail and slot mating, or a similarremovable fastening mechanism, with the endoscope. FIG. 15B illustratesan epidural working channel 50 in place, connected to the cannula,needle, or endoscope, with its tool-presenting end adjacent to the “safezone” 44.

In order to further facilitate working in the epidural space 42, theepidural portal or cannula may have, preferably close to its distal tip,an anchor system 40 to prevent said apparatus from inadvertentlyslipping out of the epidural space, as illustrated in FIG. 8. The anchor40 may be engaged towards the distal tip of the cannula or portal 56,anterior to the ligamentum flavum 10. The portal 56 may also be anchoredexternal to the epidural space—e.g., to the patient's skin 70, or withininterspinous 78 or supraspinous ligaments, as was illustrated in FIG. 8.

Referring now to FIG. 16, an additional method and apparatus forplacement of the tissue modification elements is illustrated. A twinlumen epidural needle 84 is illustrated, comprising a working channel 50adjacent to the epidural needle. The second lumen 50 serves as a workingchannel, or for the delivery of tools into or adjacent to the epiduralspace. Note that the distal beveled aperture of the working channel isproximal to the epidural needle tip, and opens onto the side of theepidural needle that the epidural bevel faces.

Referring now to FIGS. 17-20 and 45-48, an additional method andapparatus for placement of a tissue abrasion apparatus for selectivesurgical removal or remodeling of tissue is described. In FIG. 17, thedouble lumen epidural needle apparatus 84 is positioned for advancementinto the epidural space 42. FIGS. 18 and 19 shows how the covered andblunt tip of the epidural needle 2, double lumen epidural needle 84, orthe blunt end of the epidural endoscope 38, may be advanced into theipsilateral or contralateral lateral recess 108, towards the neuralforamen 110, in a direction parallel to both the adjacent ligamentumflavum 10 and the dura 46. In the illustrated example of the apparatusand method labeled FIG. 18, a fiberoptic element 38 has been placedwithin epidural needle 2, providing both a means for fiberopticvisualization of the epidural space 42 and a means to blunt the needleand thereby protect the tip of the needle from damaging the dura 46 orneural or vascular structures. In FIG. 19, the endoscope has beenadvanced along ligamentum flavum 10 (visually a “yellow ligament”) tothe lateral recess 108. “Safe zone” 44 designates the area in which amedical practitioner may resect, ablate, or otherwise modify tissuesafely, directly visualizing the area of tissue modification through thefiberoptic element. The second lumen 50 of the two lumen needle 84 orendoscope may be used as a working channel, or to dispense the abrasiveelement 14 and/or its protective sleeve 6 (FIGS. 43-48), or the workingbarrier 134 (FIG. 20) described in the primary patent referenced herein.After the neural foramen 110 has been cannulated with a non-sharp curvedneedle 22 or catheter (FIG. 43), and after the flexible, sharp, straightneedle or wire 2 has been passed through the curved needle 22 until itstip is advanced through the skin in the patient's back (FIG. 43), theabrasion apparatus 14 and/or its sleeve or cover 36 are pulled throughthe neural foramen 110, as illustrated in FIGS. 45-48. The curved needle22 or tube may, for example, be fabricated from spring steel, Nitinol,or other memory material that will allow it to be inserted through astraight needle, but to return to a fixed curve upon exiting thestraight epidural needle 2 or working channel 50. The curved needle 16optionally may be steerable. Preferably, the curved needle tip is notsharp, but is rounded or designed in other fashions less likely to cuttissue, in order to reduce a risk of neural or vascular damage.

In yet an additional embodiment of the invention (“portal over epiduralneedle” variation), an epidural portal 56 may be inserted into theepidural space as a catheter over the epidural needle 2 (as in FIG. 13),similar to the design for placement of standard intravenous cathetersused today. With such an approach, advancing the blunted needle (sharptip covered) by several millimeters will also bring the distal tip ofthe portal into the epidural space 42. Subsequently, the needle may bewithdrawn from the portal, which is held in place by the surgeons otherhand, leaving the epidural portal in the epidural space 42 as a workingchannel or endoscope guide.

In one variation, the epidural needle 2, needle based endoscope,flexible or rigid endoscope, or portal 56 (for placement over anepidural needle) may have, preferably close to its distal tip, an (e.g.,distal) anchor mechanism 40 that may be inflated or otherwise opened(e.g., in the epidural space), to help prevent inadvertent removal ofthe device from the epidural space 42. It is expected that utilizationof an anchor anterior to, or within, the ligamentum flavum 10, willprevent the portal from being pulled inadvertently through theligamentum flavum 10, and will enhance the reliability and safety ofepidural access for minimally invasive endoscopic surgery. FIG. 8illustrates a distal epidural anchor 40. FIG. 8 also illustrates thatthe portal, needle, or endoscope may include a proximal anchor or lock28 (e.g., to anchor on the skin) that may be advanced from the proximalend of the device (skin side), in order to help to prevent thepercutaneous device from advancing further into the epidural space thanis desired (as in FIG. 8 b).

FIG. 15 illustrates additional methods of safely utilizing a bluntedepidural apparatus in conjunction with additional surgical tools. Safetool access may, for example, be facilitated with either a fixed workingchannel 50, as shown in FIG. 16, or by the creation of a rail 52 andslot 58 interface on the tool or epidural endoscope, cannula or“needlescope” 56, as shown in FIG. 15 b. FIG. 15 a shows a tool 54(illustratively a grasper) fitted with a rail 52 that mates with a slot58 of epidural endoscope 56, so that it may be inserted directly intothe epidural space 42 and then advanced until it is placed in the “safezone” 44 (e.g., for tissue resection or modification, on an oppositeside of the epidural tissue), without the need for a working channelalong endoscope/needle. The part of the epidural tool that is expectedto be in direct contact with the impinging spinal tissues that thesurgeon intends to modify provides an ideal location for neuralstimulator lead placement 130. In the example illustrated in FIG. 15 a,an insulated tool shaft is combined with a conductive surface 130 on thetip of the grasping tool 54, to be used for neural stimulation. (note:the use of neural stimulation with sensorimotor monitoring, for neurallocalization, in conjunction with the current invention, will bediscussed later in this document)

In one variation, the epidural needle is curved towards its distal end,e.g., into a hockey stick shape. In a curved configuration, the lumenexits the bevel, distal to, and on the concave side of the bend in theneedle's distal shaft. With such a configuration, a “safe zone” 44 iscreated by inserting the needle so that the side opposite the bevel(convex side of the bend) is in direct contact with the dura 46, and thelumen, on the concave side of the bend, faces the ligamentum flavum 10.This configuration provides a “safe zone” 44, where tools, or a workingchannel 51, may be reliably placed on the needle side opposite the dura46.

In FIG. 15 b, a removable working channel 51 is disposed along epiduralneedle 2/endoscope 56, e.g., is integrally formed with the endoscope oris positioned via a rail 52 and slot 58 mating with the endoscope 56.FIG. 15 b illustrates an epidural “needlescope” 56 or endoscope cannulawith the working channel 51 in place, with its tool-presenting endadjacent to the “safe zone”. In FIG. 16, a double barrel epidural needle164 is illustrated, comprising a fixed working channel 50 adjacent tothe epidural needle. Needle 164 comprises first lumen 2 and second lumen50. First lumen 2 extends distally of second lumen 50 and terminates atsharpened distal tip. Two variations of the needle are illustrated inFIG. 16.

Referring now to FIGS. 17-20, an additional method and apparatus forselective surgical removal of tissue is described. In FIG. 17, thedouble lumen epidural needle apparatus is positioned for advancementinto the epidural space 42 (e.g., a safe triangle, an area at the mostposterior aspect of the epidural space, where epidural needle tipinsertion is most consistently safely performed). In FIG. 18, a catheterbased fiberoptic element 132 has been placed within epidural needle,providing both a means for fiberoptic visualization of the epiduralspace 42 and a means to blunt the needle and thereby protect the tip ofthe needle from damaging the dura 46 or neural or vascular structures.In FIG. 19, the endoscope has been advanced along ligamentum flavum 10(visually a “yellow ligament”) to the lateral recess 108. “Safe zone” 44designates the area in which a medical practitioner may resect, ablate,or otherwise modify tissue safely, under direct visualization. Thesecond barrel or lumen 50 of the double barreled needle 84 or endoscopemay be used as a working channel, or to dispense a tissue modificationbarrier or working barrier or backstop 134.

In addition to the insertion of tools through the epidural needle, orthrough an adjacent working channel 50, the same channels may beutilized to insert a barrier 134, or “working backstop” 134 (FIGS. 20,21 b, 22 b, 23, 24, 25), into the spine. In a further variation of thepresent invention, a flexible, flat, thin mechanical barrier (“workingbackstop”) 134 is placed between the tissue to be resected and adjacentvulnerable neural or vascular structures that are desired to be leftintact and uninjured. The barrier provides protection for the dura 46,nerve root 62, dorsal root ganglia, and/or vasculature, by providinginsulation and/or preventing direct contact between the tools and thesevulnerable structures during tissue manipulation, resection, abrasion,or remodeling. The protective barrier may be placed between the needlebased or endoscopically delivered tools and the dura 46 in the centralspinal canal; in the lateral recess 108; or between the tools and theneural and neurovascular structures within the neural foramen. Thebarrier 134 may be placed through the neural foramen anterior to thefacet joint 12, either anterior to the ligamentum flavum 10 (epiduralspace) or within or posterior to the ligamentum flavum 10 (posterior tothe epidural space). Tools that may be used in conjunction with thisbarrier include, but are not limited to, cautery devices (monopolar orbipolar), lasers (erbium, etc.), rasps, ronguers, graspers, burrs,sanders, drills, shavers, or probes.

The barrier or backstop 134 may be placed percutaneously via a needle 2,endoscope 38, or double barreled needle 84. In addition to epiduralendoscopy, image guidance may be combined with the use of straight,curved, or steerable guidewires for the proper placement of the barrieror backstop 134. In an open surgical variation, the barrier or backstopdevice 134 may be placed through the surgical incision.

The barrier 134 may be synthesized from one of several possiblematerials, for example, it may be partially fabricated from a springsteel, Nitinol, polymers, or other memory material that will allow athin, flat barrier to be reconfigured into a more condensedconfiguration for passage through a straight needle (FIG. 24 d), afterwhich it returns to its desired shape (FIG. 24 c) upon exiting theneedle 2. The barrier 134, optionally, may be steerable.

As is illustrated in FIG. 25, correct anatomic placement of the backstopdevice 134 may be validated via monitored electrical neural stimulationthrough the barrier device 134. Electrical nerve stimulation functionmay be added to the apparatus via dual conductive elements, the firstplaced on the working side of the backstop (or the tool used on theworking side), where tissue remodeling and resection will occur. In theexample illustrated in FIG. 24, the working nerve stimulator on theworking side of the barrier may be integrated with the rail 128, throughwhich nerve stimulation may be tested before sliding the tool or sleeveover the rail for tissue modification. A conductive element (e.g., forneural stimulation) may also be placed on the non-working side of thebackstop 130. To gain accuracy in neural localization, the stimulationleads on the device are separated by insulation material within thebackstop material.

The patient may be kept awake and responsive throughout this procedure,with no neuraxial anesthetics and no systemic analgesia. In this manner,the medical practitioner may, through verbal questioning, elicitresponses from the patient in order to ensure that any severe pain thatwould accompany undue pressure on the nerve root during placement of thetissue modification device and/or during tissue removal or remodeling isimmediately recognized prior to nerve injury. Alternatively, for adeeply sedated patient, or one under general anesthesia, nervestimulation may be monitored via SSEPs or SEPs; visually (motor movementof extremities); via MEPs; and/or via EMG (motor stimulation). In oneembodiment of the device, one might use a calibrated sensor, combinedwith computer analysis, to accurately quantify neural stimulation atdifferent locations, in order to more accurately localize neuralstructures.

As is illustrated in FIG. 25, there should be no nerve root or dorsalroot ganglion stimulation in the exact location where tissue alterationis intended to take place, when one sends appropriate small electricalcurrent through an insulated electrode that is located on the workingside of an insulated working barrier, prior to tissue modification toolplacement. Correct neural location, relative to the tissue modificationtools and barrier may further be ensured by the addition of focusedneural stimulation functionality to accompanying surgical instruments.For example, tools used for probing, tissue resection, tissuecauterization, thermal treatment, tissue lasering, tissue manipulation,tissue retraction, and tissue abrasion may contain conductive elementsfor neural localization. The nerve stimulation capabilities may be usedto ensure that the neural elements are not in dangerous proximity, orthey may be used to assist with more concise neural localization. Forinstance, a probe fitted with neural stimulation capabilities in its tipmay be used to identify neural structures, through monitoring of sensoryor motor stimulation. However, electrical stimulation on the non-workingsurface of the working barrier, which is in direct or indirect contactwith neural structures, should result in motor and/or sensory actionpotentials, which may be monitored as described above, thereby providinga positive control and assurance of proper barrier placement. For addedsafety, a surgical device may be designed to automatically stimulatebefore or during resection, and may even be designed to automaticallyblock resection when nerve stimulation has been sensed.

In a preferred variation, impinging spinal tissue is removed usingtissue abrasion apparatus and method. Variations of the apparatus andmethod may be utilized during an open surgical procedure(s); during anendoscopic surgical procedure(s); or via a percutaneous (needledelivered) surgical approach. Use of a needle-based posteriorinterlaminar or interspinous approach, a posterior-lateralneuroforaminal approach or a minimally-invasive surgical approach forplacement of the neuroforaminal abrasive tissue removal device avoidsunnecessary tissue resection and minimizes tissue injury. In addition,further embodiments of the device include nerve stimulation andmonitoring capabilities, which, when added to a spinal tissue alterationdevice, may enable the surgeon to more safely perform the procedure.

As discussed previously, variations of the present invention preferablyprovide for access, neural protection and/or decompression for treatmentof spinal stenosis. With reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, methods andapparatus for obtaining access to the neural foramen utilizing opensurgical variations of the present invention are described. FIG. 26Aillustrates two variations of access element 184. In the first variation(26A-1), access element 184 comprises cannulated probe 186,illustratively an elevator probe having first and second lumens 188 and190. Visualization element 192, such as an epidural endoscope, may beadvanced through or coupled to lumen 188 to provide visualization at thedistal tip of probe 186.

In the second variation (FIG. 26A-2), probe 186 of access element 184comprises single lumen 188′. Visualization element 192, as well ascannula 194 or curved guide wire 4 described hereinafter, may beadvanced through the unitary lumen—either in parallel or in sequence.Alternatively, the visualization element may be omitted or may beattached directly to the probe. As will be apparent, access element 184may comprise any desired number of lumens.

In FIG. 26B, the dual lumen variation of access element 184 has beenplaced through a surgical incision or cut-down in proximity to neuralforamen 110 while under optional visualization from element 192.Visualization may facilitate access via a minimally invasive or keyholesurgical cut-down, as opposed to a fully open approach. Directvisualization alternatively or additionally may be utilized.

As seen in FIG. 26C, with probe 186 properly positioned, atraumaticcurved tube, introducer or cannula 194 may be advanced through lumen188′ of the probe and driven laterally to cannulate the neural foramen110. Cannula 194 optionally may be configured to deliver a stimulationwaveform at or near its distal tip for monitoring proximity to the nerveroot during cannulation of the foramina with the cannula. A preferablystraight, flexible guide wire 4 or needle, which optionally comprisessharpened tip, then may be advanced through cannula 194 and drivenposteriorly through the skin of the patient's back, as in FIG. 26D.Alternatively, a second surgical incision and or cut-down may be formedat or near the exit of the neural foramen for grasping the guide wireand pulling it through. With access guide wire 4 positioned through andacross the neural foramen, probe 186 may be removed, as in FIG. 26E.This leaves the guide Wire 4 in place to provide access for, e.g.,neural protection and tissue removal apparatus, as describedhereinbelow.

With reference to FIG. 27, an alternative method for obtaining openaccess is described. As seen in FIG. 27A, curved guide wire 22 may beadvanced through lumen 188′ of probe 186, such that the guide wire 22passes through the neural foramen 110, encircles the facet 12 andreemerges in the surgical field. Guide wire 22 optionally may beconfigured to deliver a stimulation waveform at or near its distal tipfor monitoring proximity to the nerve root during passage of the wirethrough the foramen 110. The needle may, for example, be insulated atregions other than the distal tip. With the wire encircling the facet12, probe 186 then may be removed, as seen in FIG. 27B, leaving accessguide wire 22 in place to provide access for selective removal ofimpinging tissue.

Access also may be achieved in a percutaneous fashion. For example,access may be achieved via an access element comprising an epiduralneedle or probe, or via an epidural endoscope having a working channel,that is positioned within the epidural space. In one variation, a curvedatraumatic needle or cannula may be advanced through the percutaneousaccess element and driven laterally to cannulate the neural foramen. Apreferably straight, flexible guide wire or needle then may be advancedthrough the curved needle and driven posteriorly through the skin of thepatient's back. In an alternative variation, a curved guide wire may beadvanced through the percutaneous access element and passedtransforaminally. Percutaneous access optionally may be aided by the useof image guidance, an epidural endoscope or any other visualizationtechnique.

FIG. 28 shows a percutaneous method and apparatus for obtaining accessfor selective surgical removal of tissue. Access element is disposedwithin epidural space 42. Access element may comprise, for example,epidural needle 2, an epidural trocar, an epidural endoscope, etc. Theneedle tip is anterior to the ligamentum flavum 10, but still posteriorto the dura 46 in the posterior epidural space 42.

FIG. 29 illustrates a preferred method of cannulating the neuralforamina, where an atraumatic curved tube or cannula 16 (e.g., blunt,curved needle composed of memory material) is passed through thestraight epidural needle 2 (alternatively, a stiff epidural catheter, orsteerable guidewire may be inserted through the needle for this step) tocannulate the neural foramen NF. The curved needle 16 is flexible enoughto be passed through the straight epidural needle 2, but is made of amemory material that returns it to its curved configuration upon when itis passed into tissue. The second needle 16 (alternatively, a steerable,stiff catheter or guidewire), is advanced through the epidural space 42,possibly passing through a portion of the ligamentum flavum 10, towardsand then through the ipsilateral or contralateral neural foramen 110.The surgeon may use any combination of tactile feel, image guidance,direct visualization, and/or fiberoptic visualization to ensure that thecurved element 16 is driven through the neural foramen, anterior to thefacet (zygapophysial) joint complex 12, but posterior to the nerve root62 or ganglion. As discussed previously, the cannulas may be configuredto stimulate and monitor response of the nerve root as a safetyprecaution during cannulation of the foramen.

Once the curved element is in position through the neural foramen, thesurgeon subsequently passes a smaller gauge straight and sharp flexibleguidewire 4 (or needle), as in FIG. 30 through the lumen of the largercurved needle that is in position through the neural foramen 110, untilit exits into the tissue lateral to the neural foramen (FIG. 30). Thisstraight wire 4 or straight needle exits the curved element with its tipfacing in a posterior or posterior-lateral direction. It is advancedfurther in this direction, passing to, and then through the skin of thepatient's back 70, as in FIG. 30. Access element 2 and cannula 16 thenmay be removed, as in FIG. 31, leaving access guide wire 4 in placetransforaminally to provide access to the lateral recess and neuralforamen.

As an alternative to deploying cannula 16 through access element 2, thecannula 16 may be delivered over the access element. As yet anotheralternative, upon placement of the access element in the epidural space,a stiff rod may be advanced through the lumen of the access element, andthe access element may be removed. Cannula 16 then may be deployed overthe stiff rod, which then may be removed from the lumen of the cannulaand replaced with guide wire 4.

As seen in FIG. 36, a steerable needle or wire 18 is placed through theneural foramina 110 from the lateral towards the medial side of theforamen 110. This lateral to medial neuroforaminal approach may beginwith a curved, blunt wire through a straight needle (as described in theprevious technique), or using a curved needle technique, a steerableguidewire technique, a needle-through-a-needle technique, or commonvariations thereof. While a loss of resistance technique is not ashelpful with this transforaminal approach to the epidural space 42, asit was in the previously described posterior approach to the epiduralspace 42, the method is, in many other aspects, otherwise similar to themethod illustrated in FIGS. 28-35.

Studies and tests may be performed to ensure that the transforaminallyplaced apparatus has been properly positioned between the nerve root 62or ganglia and the facet joint complex 12. For example, imaging of theabrasion element and spinal anatomy (fluoroscopic or other imagingmodalities); monitored neural stimulation through the apparatus; ordirect (endoscopic or open) visualization may be utilized.

After proper placement has been confirmed, the curved element 16 thatwas used to initially cannulate the neural foramen is removed, bypulling it back out of the hub of the epidural needle 2, leaving thetransforaminal wire 4 in place, as illustrated in FIG. 31. Next theepidural needle 2 may also be removed, if desired, again leaving thewire 4 in its position, through the neural foramen. As shown, both endsof the element 4 remain external to the patient, having exited the skin(percutaneous procedure) or exited the tissue through the surgical wound(open procedure).

With the wire in position through the neural foramina, there aremultiple possible methods for replacing the wire with the abrasionapparatus. One method is illustrated in FIGS. 45-48, where the wire 4 isused to pull into position the abrasion element 14; the abrasion elementsleeve or cover 6; or the abrasion element 14 and cover 6 together, asis described in greater detail below. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS.32 and 33, separate protective sleeves or covers 36 may be passed overboth the proximal and distal ends of the transforaminal wire 4. Eachsleeve or cover may be advanced to the neural foramen. Next, theneuroforaminally placed wire 4 is connected distally, or proximally, tothe abrasive element 14, with an abrasive surface on one side. Theabrasive element 14, connected by one end to the transforaminal wire 4,is pulled through the neural foramen, and through the protective sheathsor covers 6, as in FIGS. 34 and 35, until the abrasive element hascompletely replaced the initially placed wire 4 (or needle). Passage ofa tissue dilator over the transforaminal wire 4 or needle, may behelpful, either before or after placement of the sleeve. Protectivesleeve(s) 6 illustratively are disposed over both ends of thetransforaminal wire 4, in order to protect non-surgical tissues from theabrasive or cutting portion of the device, when it is pulled into place.Alternatively, a protective sleeve, which may be expandable, asillustrated in FIG. 85, may be attached to the end of the wire andpulled through the neural foramina, thereby replacing the initialtranforaminally placed element 4.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, the abrasive element 14 ispositioned within the protective sleeve cover 6, before or afterplacement of the abrasive element in position through the neuralforamina. Please note that the terms “protective sleeve” and “protectivecover” are used interchangeably in these descriptions of severalexamples of the apparatus and methods for protecting vulnerable tissuefrom the abrasion apparatus. Embodiments of the protective methods andapparatus are illustrated in FIGS. 85-88. With the abrasive element 14already inside the protective apparatus 94/96, with or without anopening over the abrasive surface where tissue abrasion is to beperformed, the protective covering 96, with the abrasive apparatus 14already inserted within it, may be connected to one end of the needle orguidewire 4 that remains in place through the neural foramen 110. Inthis preferred method, the combined protective sleeve 6 and the abrasiveelement 14 are then pulled simultaneously through the neural foramen, bypulling from the opposite end of the preliminarily placed neuroforaminalelement 4, while it is removed (FIGS. 46, 47, 48).

Once the abrasion apparatus has been properly positioned through theneural foramina 110, with its protective cover in place 6, it is readyto be tested to ensure it has been properly located. The apparatus maysubsequently be utilized for tissue abrasion, tissue removal, and tissueremodeling, as will be described in detail below. Before describingtissue modification in further detail, however, we will describealternative approaches for placement of the abrasion device intoposition through the neural foramina. Referring now to FIGS. 36-39, avariation of the method and apparatus of FIGS. 28-35 is describedcomprising an alternative approach for placement of the tissuemodification device, wherein the apparatus 14 is placed from the lateralside of the neural foramen 110. As seen in FIG. 36, steerable cannula 18is advanced through access element 2 to cannulate the foramen from thelateral towards the medial side of the foramen. (Alternatively, straightguide wire 4 may be advanced through a curved cannula 16 and drivenposteriorly out the patient's back along the medial aspect of the facet,similar to above described methods for passing a guidewire through theneural foramina from it's medial side).

Neural protection element 6 illustratively comprises a sheath havingopening or window that is placed across the foramen at the position ofdesired selective tissue removal. The end regions of neural protectionelement 6 disposed outside the patient optionally may be attached orclipped together to stabilize the element and free up the medicalpractitioner's hands.

As illustrated in FIGS. 57-63, a tissue removal device may be positionedbetween impinging tissue and the neural protection element for safe,selective removal of the impinging tissue. For example, tissue removaldevice 14 may be delivered through, along or in conjunction with neuralprotection element 6 to position the tissue removal device across theforamen between the impinging tissue and the neural protection elementwith tissue removal surface of device locally exposed to the impingingtissue within window of neural protection element 6. In FIG. 60, tissueremoval device 14 is coupled to access guide wire 4. In FIG. 61, thetissue removal device is pulled into position by partially or completelyremoving the guide wire. Tissue removal device 14 alternatively may bepositioned across the neural foramen in conjunction with, or at the sametime as, neural protection element 6, which optionally may be coupled toguide wire 4 and pulled into position. Furthermore, neural protectionelement 6 and tissue removal device 14 may be integrated into a singledevice. As yet another alternative, tissue removal device may beadvanced over guide wire 4.

In FIG. 62 and 63, temporary stops 112 have been attached to neuralprotection element 6 to maintain the position of the element and free upthe medical practitioner's hands, for example, for manipulation oftissue removal device 14. The stops may hold window of sheath 6 ofelement 14 under tension against the impinging tissue. Stops 112 may beplaced or expanded, or removed or collapsed, etc., at any time asdesired; for example, the stops may be placed prior to positioning oftissue removal device 14 transforaminally. Stops 112 may comprise anyelement that temporarily maintains the position of the accesselement/guide wire, the neural protection element and/or the tissueremoval device during a selective tissue removal procedure. As mentionedpreviously, the end regions of neural protection element 6 alternativelyor additionally may be attached or clipped to one another to stabilizethe element and free up the medical practitioner's hands.

As an added safety precaution, variations of the present inventionoptionally may comprise neural localization elements to ensure properpositioning of the access element or guide wire, the neural protectionelement, and/or the tissue removal device. The neural localizationelements may comprise separate elements or may be integrated with theaccess element, the neural protection element and/or the tissue removaldevice.

As seen FIG. 64, neural protection element illustratively comprisesneural localization element disposed on the backside of the sheathfacing nerve root 62. Element comprises a conductive element that iselectrically coupled to electrical generator 114 via wires 120. Elementillustratively is connected in a monopolar fashion whereby element 120acts as an active electrode, while ground electrode 116, which iscoupled to generator 114 via wire, is attached to the exterior of thepatient. However, it should be understood that a bipolar neurallocalization element alternatively may be provided. Furthermore, neurallocalization element(s) alternatively or additionally may be disposed onthe working side of the neural protection element, or on any other sideof the neural protection element or of the tissue removal device.

Neural localization element may be used to ensure that neural structuresand adjacent vascular structures are on the non-working or backside ofneural protection element 6. Neural localization element on the backsideof the sheath (i.e., the side of the sheath that contacts the nerve rootwhen properly positioned) may be activated with a stimulation waveformto stimulate the nerve root, thereby providing a positive control thatconfirms placement of the backside in proximity to the nerve root.Appropriate low intensity electrical stimulation on the backside surfaceshould result in the stimulation of sensory or motor nerves in thepatient's extremity. Likewise, optional neural localization elements onthe working side of the sheath (i.e., the side of the sheath that facesimpinging tissue slated for removal) may be activated with a stimulationwaveform in anticipation of a negative response or no neural stimulationthat confirms that the working side is not in contact with the nerveroot and that tissue removal may safely proceed. Neural localizationelements also may be provided on sides of the sheath 6.

Neural stimulation may be monitored by monitoring somatosensory-evokedpotentials (SSEPs), motor-evoked potentials (MEPs), and/or by lookingfor visual signs of muscular contraction within the extremities. SSEP,SEP, MEP or EMG feedback may be monitored and/or recorded visually, ormay be monitored audibly, potentially conveying quantitative feedbackrelated to the volume or frequency of the auditory signal (e.g. a Geigercounter-type of quantitative auditory feedback). Intensity of signal orstimulation may be monitored and used to localize the nerve duringplacement of neural protection element, as well.

Neural localization may be enabled further by the addition of surgicalinstruments (e.g. cautery devices, graspers, shavers, burrs, probes,etc.) that are able to selectively stimulate electrically whilemonitoring nerve stimulation in similar fashions. Quantification ofstimulation may enable neural localization. For instance, one might usea calibrated sensor input that recognizes stronger stimulation as thedevice is moved closer to neural structures. For added safety, tissueremoval device 114 may be designed to automatically stimulate before orduring tissue removal, and may even be designed to automatically stoptissue removal when nerve stimulation has been sensed.

With reference to FIGS. 40 a-40 e, another variation of the method andapparatus of FIGS. 28-35 is described. In FIG. 40 a, the apparatus 20 isplaced from an interlaminar; a translaminar, interspinous; or atransforaminal insertion, illustratively via a paramedian, ipsilateral(i.e., medial to lateral) approach. The apparatus can be an epiduralprobe, which may, for example, comprise an epidural endoscope having aworking channel. The apparatus can be advanced in proximity to themedial aspect of the neural foramen. A lateral to medial transforaminalapproach with the same type of apparatus may alternatively be used. Theblunt or rounded distal tip of apparatus 20 optionally may be somewhatsharper, to facilitate placement. The apparatus 20 may be preceded by aguidewire, a dilator, or a needle introducer (possibly with or followedby an expandable sheath).

This variation of the apparatus and method, as seen in FIG. 40 b,contains a rigid, curved wire or needle 22, which may be steerable,which is driven from the tip of the apparatus 20, laterally through theneural foramen and then posteriorly, around the facet joint complex 12and back towards apparatus 20, where the needle may be received onceagain by the apparatus. Curved guide wire 22 can be advanced through theprobe such that it passes transforaminally and reengages probe 20 aftercompletely encircling facet 12. As discussed previously, guide wire 22may be configured to stimulate and monitor the response of the nerveroot during transforaminal passage to ensure proper positioning of thewire. As seen in FIG. 40 d, probe 200 then is withdrawn from thepatient, leaving guide wire 22 in position transforaminally to provideaccess.

FIG. 40E provides a cross section through apparatus 20 that illustratesan exemplary geometry for the apparatus comprising a feature thatfacilitates receiving of the distal end of the needle or rigid guidewireback within the apparatus. Alternative geometries will be apparent. Oncereceived back within apparatus 20, the wire 22 completely encircles thefacet joint 12, as in FIG. 40 c, d. In FIGS. 41, and 42, guidewire 22has been replaced by tissue abrasion device 30, e.g., a belt, strap orribbon, preferably within a protective sheath or cover 32, with theabrasive surface of the device in contact with the anterior-medial facetcomplex. Apparatus 20 is pulled back, bringing the working surface(exposed abrasive portion) of the instrument into firm contact withoperator controlled pressure against the surface from which tissueremoval will occur. Neuroforaminal enlargement begins with the movementof the abrasive surface 30 against the anterior and medial portion ofthe facet complex, in the lateral recess and neural foramen.

With reference to FIG. 41, an enlarged view of the mechanical portion ofapparatus 20 is described. An abrasive surface 30 is disposed along theinside side of tissue abrasion element. The abrasion device may beactuated, e.g., via rotation of a gear 106 within the apparatus 20.Debris may be captured within apparatus 20, and stored in the shaftand/or handle, or removed continuously during the procedure. In somevariations, tissue removal surface 30 of device 20 comprises one or morepowered mechanical tissue removal elements. The powered mechanicaltissue removal elements may comprise, for example, band saws, beltshavers, rotary burrs or blades, reciprocating burrs or blades, etc.FIG. 41 illustrates a rotary variation of the tissue removal device thatmay be powered or operated manually, and that may remove tissue in asingle direction, or in a reciprocating fashion. In FIG. 41, tissueremoval device 20 comprises a belt coupled to drive wheel 106. The drivewheel may be rotated by hand or via a motor in either direction toadvance or retract device 20 relative to neural protection element 32and window in order to selectively remove tissue.

Irrigation optionally may be provided through element 20 via irrigationlumen 324 of member 20. Suction optionally may be provided throughelement 20 via suction lumen 326 of member 20. Suction and/or irrigationmay be provided intermittently or continuously, as desired by themedical practitioner.

Referring now to FIG. 42, a variation of the apparatus of FIG. 41 isdescribed comprising an additional protective cover 32 that covers oneor more sides of the abrasive elements 14 of the device 20 in allregions except for the area covering the tissue where abrasion is totake place. This cover may contain a conductive element in order toenable nerve stimulation and/or to facilitate neural localization. Nervestimulation capabilities may be present on the internal abrasive surface30 of device abrasive element, and/or on the external side (non-tissueabrading) of the device, as an added safety measure. For example, theuser may send an electric impulse through a conductive element withinthe back-side (external surface) of the device, expecting to achieveneural stimulation when the device is in place through the neuralforamina, while neural stimulation should not be achievable with asimilar electrical impulse conducted across a portion of the abrasiveside of the device. In this manner, information from monitoring thenerve stimulation may ensure proper placement of the abrasion device andreduce a risk of inadvertent neural or perineural vascular abrasion.

In FIG. 43, straight wire or needle 4 is driven through curved needle 16disposed in working channel 50 of double barrel epidural needle. Thisstraight wire or needle 4 is advanced until it has penetrated throughthe skin and out of the patient's body. The straight wire preferably hasa sharp tip. In FIG. 44, curved needle 16 is withdrawn from workingchannel 50, leaving straight wire or needle 4 in place. Then, as seen inFIG. 45, the epidural needle and working channel may be withdrawn fromthe patient, or, in an alternative embodiment (FIG. 15 b), when using adetachable working channel 50, the working channel alone may bewithdrawn from the patient, leaving straight wire 4 in place. In FIG.46, straight wire 4 is hooked to abrasion device 14 and/or the abrasiondevice's protective sleeve 6. In FIG. 47, the abrasion device 14 and/orthe device's protective sleeve are pulled into position by wire 4 as thewire is removed. In FIG. 48, wire 4 has been completely removed, and theabrasion device 14 and its protective sleeve 6 are properly positionedfor tissue resection, anterior to the facet 12 and ligamentum flavum 10.

In an open surgical variation, the abrasive element 14 and its cover 6may be placed through the surgical incision, from a interlaminar,translaminar, or neuroforaminal approach. Visualization and placementmay be aided via partial or complete laminectomy, facetectomy, orligamentectomy. Methods for threading the neural foramina include, butare not limited to the use of a wire, blunt needle, probe, endoscope, orsuture. After spinal neuroforaminal placement, the abrasion device 14 isused to selectively remove tissues that impinge on the neurovascularstructures within the lateral recess 108 and neural foramen 110, on theanterior side of the facet joint 12. In an open approach, as with apercutaneous approach, the device may be inserted through a needle,optionally under image guidance or with the aid of an epiduralendoscope. Once placed through the neural foramina 110 of the spine,around the anterior border of the facet joint 12, and anterior to theligamentum flavum 10, the medical practitioner may enlarge the lateralrecess and neural foramina via frictional abrasion, i.e., by sliding theabrasive surface across the tissue to be resected (e.g., far lateralligamentum flavum, anterior and medial facet, osteophytes). The abrasiondevice alternatively or additionally may be placed through the neuralforamen 110 anterior to the facet joint 12, but through or posterior tothe ligamentum flavum 10. The medical practitioner controls the forceand speed of the abrasive surface against the tissue to be removed,while optional protective covers, tubes or sleeves 6 help limit the areaexposed to the abrasive element for treatment.

Referring now to FIGS. 49-64, a variation of the method and apparatus ofFIGS. 43-48 is described, comprising another preferred approach forplacement of the abrasion device. This series begins with FIG. 49, inwhich a double lumen, blunt tipped, epidural device 84, has already beenadvanced to the lateral recess 108, using a technique similar to FIG.19. Next, FIG. 50 shows a curved flexible needle 16, preferably with anatraumatic tip, that has been advanced, via the working channel 50 (FIG.16), through the neural foramina 110. FIG. 51 illustrates threading ofthe straight, flexible, sharp tipped wire 4 a through the curved needle22, and advanced posteriorly until it exits the skin of the back. InFIG. 52, the curved needle has been withdrawn, leaving the straight wire4 a in place. In FIG. 53, the double lumen epidural apparatus 84 isslightly withdrawn, from the patient, so that the working channel 50 isdirected towards the medial side of the face complex. FIG. 54 shows thecurved needle 16 advanced through the working channel again, adjacent tothe first wire 4 a, this time advancing the same or a different curved,flexible needle 16, towards the opposite side of the facet complex 12.FIG. 55 shows where a second straight flexible wire 4 b is advancedthrough the second placement of a curved needle 16, this time on themedial side of the facet joint. The second sharp, flexible, straightwire 4 b is threaded through this second curved needle, and subsequentlyadvanced posteriorly, until the sharp tip of the wire 4 b exits the skin70. FIG. 56 next shows both the curved needles and the double lumenapparatus removed, leaving the wires 4 a and 4 b in place.

FIG. 57 shows that both wires have been attached to the two ends of theabrasive element 14 and/or the cover 6 of the abrasive element. Withaccess established, via either a percutaneous or an open approach (or acombination thereof), neural protection and/or tissue removal elementsmay be introduced via the access for safe, selective removal of tissue.It should be understood that the methods and apparatus describedhereinafter are equally applicable to both open and percutaneousapproaches. For the purpose of clarity, they may be illustratedutilizing only a percutaneous or open access, but this should in no waybe construed as limiting.

In order to reduce a risk of neurological damage during selective tissueremoval, variations of the present invention optionally may provideneural protection during tissue removal. In one variation, a neuralprotection element, such as a sheath, shield or backstop, is positionedsuch that the neural protection element separates impinging tissue inthe neural foramen from the underlying nerve root. Tissue removal thenmay proceed by advancing a tissue removal device into position betweenthe foramen and the neural protection element. When access to thestenosed region is via an open surgical procedure, it may be possiblefor the medical practitioner to manually place the neural protectionelement. Alternatively, when using either an open or a percutaneousaccess, the neural protection element may by advanced over, or pulledinto place by, an access guide wire placed as described previously.

Alternatively, the two wires 4 a and 4 b may be opposite ends of thesame continuous wire, with the cover 6 for the abrasive element 14already placed over the mid-portion of the wire 4. Alternatively, theabrasive element 14 may already have been placed inside said cover 6,and attached at each end to the wires 4 a and 4 b. FIGS. 58 and 59 showthe two wires 4 a and 4 b pulled and bringing the abrasive elementcover, possibly with the abrasive element 14 already placed inside saidcover 6, into position through the neural foramina. FIG. 60 illustratesthe step that follows placement of the abrasion element cover 6 alone.In FIG. 60, with the wire 4 in place inside the abrasion element cover6, the abrasive element 14 is now seen to have been attached to the endof the wire. Subsequently, the cover 6 is held open at each end by agrasping device, which also holds the cover 6 under tension against thetissue to be abraded. With the cover anchored thus, the abrasive element14 is pulled into place by the wire 4 a/b, replacing the wire, as hasoccurred for FIGS. 61 and 62. With the abrasive element in position andthe abrasive element cover 6 tightly held open and against the tissue tobe abraded, the abrasion element 14 may be pulled back and forth, undertension, against the tissue to be abraded, as in FIG. 62. Alternatively,the abrasive element may be pulled in a single direction across thetissue to be abraded. FIG. 63 illustrates the cover 6 following removalof the abrasive element. Said cover may remain in placed as acompression bandage, under tension against the freshly abraded surface,in order to promote hemostasis, promote tissue remodeling, and trapdebris post operatively.

A nerve stimulator may be incorporated into the abrasive surface of theabrasive element, and/or incorporated into the protective cover orsheath for the abrasive element, in order to verify correct placementand enhance safety by allowing the medical practitioner to ensure thatneural tissue is not subject to inadvertent abrasion. FIG. 64illustrates a neural stimulation apparatus. FIG. 64 also illustrates anabrasion element 14, disposed inside of a sheath or cover 6, and held inplace by tension retaining elements 112.

The stimulation apparatus 114 delivers a small electrical currentthrough the working surface and/or the non-working surface (backside) ofeither the tools used in the epidural space, the abrasive element 14,and/or the protective cover 6 of the abrasive element. Preferably, oneelectrode 120 would be connected to each side (abrasive andnon-abrasive) of the entire device and sheath complex, along the fulldistance where tissue abrasion is planned to occur, in the lateralrecess, central canal, or neural foramen. Neural stimulation may bemonitored via verbal response to stimulation in an awake or lightlysedated patient, or SSEP, MEP, EMG, or motor evoked muscular movement inan asleep or sedated patient. One possible mechanism for avoidinginadvertent neural damage may be to ensure that there is no neuralstimulation when stimulating the working surface of the device. Apositive control should be obtainable in the lateral recess and neuralforamen, when stimulating the non working surface (back side) of thedevice or, preferably, the backside of the device cover or sheath 6(e.g., first portion of locking mechanism).

After the abrasion element, and possibly its protective sheath or cover6, have been placed through the neural foramina 110 the abrasive surfaceis brought into firm contact with the tissue to be abraded by pullingtension simultaneously on each end of the abrasion element. When bothends of the abrasive element 14 are pulled simultaneously, the abrasivesurface of the device is brought under tension and into firm contactwith the impinging spinal tissue on the anterior and medial sides of thefacet joint complex. Subsequently, one end of the abrasive element ispulled more forcefully than the other, sliding the abrasive surface isacross the target tissue. When one end of the abrasive element is pulledwith more force than the other, the ribbon moves in the direction of thestronger pull, while the lesser pull on the opposite end maintains forceand creates friction with movement between the abrasive surface and thetissue to be resected. When the optional protective cover 6 or sheath isprovided, both of its ends of the are, in one variation, pulled undertraction and anchored in place, such that the abrasive element 14 may bepulled in either or both directions through the cover 6 or sheathwithout significant friction against and/or without causing trauma toadjacent tissues.

Alternatively, the abrasive element 14 may be pulled in a singledirection across the tissue. The abrasive belt, strap or ribbon may be asingle length, pulled alternately in each direction, or it may bedispensed from a spool, as in FIG. 65 a, or from a reel to reelconfiguration, as in FIG. 65 b, and pulled in both directions or pulledin a single direction, across the tissue to be abraded. An alternativevariation of the apparatus and method utilizes an electromechanical,belt driven abrasive tool, an example of which was described previouslyin FIGS. 41 and 42.

In one variation of the invention, a tissue retention or compressiondressing (FIGS. 63, 73, 75) method and apparatus are utilizedimmediately after the tissue removal, ablation and remodeling proceduresdescribed above. For example, following neuroforaminal and lateralrecess enlargement, it may be advantageous to leave, as a surgicaldressing, a thin flat element 150 pulled tightly against the resected,abraded, or remodeled tissue surface (e.g., around the facet complex).It is expected that a compression dressing of this nature will enhancehemostasis, promote healing and promote subsequent tissue remodelingwith the neural foramen widely open. Also, the surgical dressing 150would provide a barrier to trap tissue debris away from neural orneurovascular structures, while providing an optional technique fordelivering medication, possibly as a depot, to the operative site. Thedressing 150 would also present a smooth surface towards the nerve rootin the immediate post-operative period.

As in FIG. 63, this neuroforaminal compression dressing may bepercutaneously held tightly in place against the resected, abraded, orotherwise remodeled surface (e.g., zygapophysial (facet) joint) 12. Incertain embodiments, the compression dressing may be eitherpercutaneously removable (as shown in FIGS. 63 and 73), either bypulling the dressing through the neural foramen, or by the inclusion ofa biodegradable central component of the dressing, such that the twoends may be removed, with the dressing separating at its biodegradableportion in the middle. In other variations, a compression dressing mayinclude a totally implanted and completely biodegradable dressing, asillustrated in FIGS. 75 a or b.

FIGS. 49-59 and 63, and FIGS. 66-73 illustrate midline or paramedianapproaches to percutaneous placement of a neuroforaminal compressiondevice (e.g., percutaneous retention compression dressing or tissueremodeling strap) 150 that is wrapped around the facet complex andretracts the posterior aspect of the neural foramina, effectivelydilating the space available for the neural and vascular structures.FIGS. 74 a and b illustrate the first steps in a posterior lateralneuroforaminal approach to placement of a compression element(subsequent steps would share similarities with the approach illustratedin FIGS. 49-59 and 63). A grasper, loop or hook 146 can be for grabbingan end of the guidewire.

An additional embodiment of the method and apparatus may combine boththe working backstop 134 and the compression element 150, as illustratedin FIGS. 76 and 77. In these illustrations, the compression element 150serves to keep the working barrier 134 in proper position. Subsequently,image guidance may be used to guide tools used in open or percutaneousprocedural approaches to neuroforaminal and lateral recess enlargement.The example in FIG. 77 illustrates an image guided drill 176 removing aportion of the impinging facet complex. With the barrier in place,possibly further aided by neural stimulation/localization capabilities,selective and safe tissue removal may be more readily performed.

FIGS. 78-81 illustrate some of the compression element embodiments 150.FIG. 79 also contains an area (e.g., a drug depot in a retention strapor compression dressing) 162 for storage of medications for delivery tothe tissue retracted by the compression element 150. The compressionelement can have a locking mechanism that can have a first portion 172that can insert through a second portion, and can have a lockingmechanism that can have a second portion 174 that can receive a firstportion 172.

FIGS. 82 and 83 demonstrate additional methods and apparatus forenlargement of the central spinal canal and lateral recess, byretracting the posterior spinal anatomy, in particular the ligamentumflavum 10 (FIGS. 79 and 80 illustrate translaminar ligamentum flavumretraction), in a further posterior direction, away from the dura 46,cauda equina 140, nerve roots 62, and dorsal root ganglia. Such a devicewould both serve both to. retract the spinal tissue posteriorly, and toprevent the posterior elements, particularly the ligamentum flavum 10,from buckling anteriorly into the spinal canal or lateral recess. FIG.82 illustrates an apparatus with an anchor 126 anterior to or within theligamentum flavum, a second (e.g., laminar) anchor posterior to thelamina 124 (e.g., for posterior retention) and a mechanism formaintaining tension in order to retract the tissues posteriorly, towardsthe lamina 22. FIG. 83 illustrates a rivet type device that is placedthrough a hole that has been drilled through the lamina 124. Such arivet has an anchor 126 placed anterior to the ligamentum flavum 10,which is retracted posteriorly in order to enlarge the central spinalcanal and/or lateral recess. Spinal endoscopy may be used as a tool toplace a ligamentum flavum retraction system, or in order to confirm thatcorrect placement and efficacy has been achieved.

Most of the safety issues related to the methods and apparatus describedherein are similar to those associated with any surgical procedure,e.g., infection and/or bleeding. Some safety issues are more specific tosurgery in and around the spine or spinal cord, and are therefore givenspecial consideration below. These generally relate to spinal nerveinjury. Morbidity could result from instruments inadvertently passedthrough the dura mater, and creating a cerebrospinal fluid leak and/ordamaging the cauda equina (caudal to T12-L1) or spinal cord (cephalad toT12-L1) when entering the epidural space. Potentially traumatizedstructures further include nerve roots, adjacent vasculature, or dorsalroot ganglia.

FIG. 84 are sagittal midline cryosections of the lumbar spine (providedcourtesy of Wolfgang Rauchning, MD) that demonstrate the ligamentumflavum protruding (“buckling”) anteriorly, a potential mechanism forcentral or lateral recess neural or neurovascular impingement. Theligamentum flavum is a potential target for tissue resection using theherein described methods and apparatus.

FIGS. 85, 86, 87, 88, 90 illustrate preferred embodiments of theprotective cover or sheath for the abrasion element, in which theabrasive surface is covered 94 and the backside of the abrasive elementmay also be shielded 96, to prevent tissue damage in areas where tissueabrasion is not intended. The abrasive element's protective cover isideally shaped to provide optimal protection of vulnerable tissues, atthe same time maintaining both a very small profile, for easy threadingof the stenotic neural foramen; and atraumatic edges (e.g. rounded), inorder to prevent cutting of or trauma to neural, vascular or othertissue during placement, use or removal of the device. For example, incertain preferred embodiments, the abrasion device may be tubular, withan opening over the tissue to be abraded; or may be flat (FIGS. 86, 87,88, 90) with atraumatic railings or tracks that facilitate passage ofthe abrasion element, abrasion surface cover, or other instruments. Sidechannels, through which the edges of the abrasion element may bemaintained but are able to slide freely may be of an atraumatic shape82. Said side channels may also hold the protective cover 94 for theabrasive side of the abrasion element 14. Note that neural stimulationand localization may be performed through a conductive element in theback cover 96, the front cover 94, or in the abrasive side of theabrasive element itself 14. Both free ends of the device, as well as theends of the optional protective sheath or cover 6, are positionedexternal to the patient for manipulation by a medical practitioner.

FIG. 87 show a similar protective cover and abrasive elementconfiguration to that described in FIG. 86, this time with neuralstimulation element 92 only illustrated in the non-abrasive side ofprotective cover. In addition, FIGS. 87 e and 87 f show that theabrasive element 14 has been replaced by an alternative element for drugdeposition 88, and/or to serve as part of the compression dressing, whenthe elements are left under tension against the abraded surface, afterthe operative procedure.

FIG. 88 illustrate an additional similar embodiment of the abrasiveelement 14 with protective covers 94 and 96. This time, no neuralstimulation elements are illustrated.

Referring now to FIGS. 89 and 90, sections through the abrasiveapparatus are illustrated. The abrasive element 14 is seen, housedwithin the protective covers. In some variations of neural protectionelement 6 and tissue removal device, the neural protection element 6 andthe tissue removal device 14 may comprise mating features to facilitateadvancement of the device through the element. In FIG. 89, element 14comprises track 220 that mates with protrusions 330 of device. In thevariation of FIGS. 89 and 90, neural protection element 6 also comprisesrecessed space 230 disposed between device 14 and the backside of theelement. Tissue or debris removal or capture may be accomplished throughthis space. For example, when tissue removal elements comprise featurespunched, stamped, cut, etched, etc. through device 14, removed tissuemay fall through the punched features and collect within space 230. Thisspace optionally may be emptied of debris during a procedure viairrigation and/or aspiration, but alternatively may be used as areservoir where debris may collect for removal at the conclusion of aprocedure.

As shown, the abrasion element may, for example, be structured as a thinbelt or ribbon 14, with an abrasive and/or cutting surface on one of itssides. The abrasive element 14 may exist in a variety of shapes, rangingfrom flat to curved; from narrow to wide; and from a solid toperforated. The abrasive surface of the abrasive element 14 may, in onevariation, contain deep grooves 118 or perforations for the transport ofdebris away from the operative site. Alternatively, the pattern ofabrasive may be designed to control the direction and speed of movementof the surface across the tissue to be abraded (e.g. deep grooves, at adiagonal to the edge of the straps, may be used to facilitate lateralmovement of the abrasive element). The width and shape of the abrasiveelements may also be varied, in further effort to control the area oftissue to be resected. Finally, in one preferred variation, the surgeonwould begin with a coarser grade of abrasive material, in order to gainmore aggressive tissue removal. Sequential use of less and lessaggressive surfaces would serve to smooth the abraded tissue surface,with the aim of creating an atraumatic surface for contact withneurovascular structures.

Placement of a tissue abrasion device 14 through protective sleeve(s) 6and into position for selective tissue removal, brings the abrasivesurface 14 into contact with the tissue to be removed. A medicalpractitioner may remove tissue in contact with abrasive surface (FIGS.90 a, b, c) by applying a reciprocating or unidirectional motion to theends of device 14 exterior to the patient. In one variation, a spool orreel to reel configuration may be designed that begins with a coarsegrade of abrasive material, and progresses towards less abrasivematerials as the spool or reel unwinds.

FIGS. 90 a-90 c illustrate additional mechanical variations of tissueremoval elements. FIGS. 90 a and 90 b illustrate alternative blade orsaw configurations. The blades may comprise various shapes, sizes andconfigurations, as desired. Furthermore, the blades may be attached tothe tissue removal device or may be formed by punching or stampingthrough the device with optional subsequent grinding of the punchededge. Alternatively, the blades may be formed by a chemical etchingprocess. The blades may comprise a 3-dimensional profile to facilitatecutting, for example, a bow or a corrugation or a ‘cheese grater’profile. Furthermore, the blades may be placed at one or more anglesrelative to the direction of tissue removal. Cutting surfaces of theblades may be oriented in a single direction or may be oriented inmultiple directions. Additionally, the blades may be serrated. Asanother alternative, the mechanical elements may comprise fine cuttingwires or a Gigli saw. A plurality or cutting wires or Gigli saws may bejoined or woven together or flattened to form a substantially planarcutting surface. FIG. 90 c illustrates an abrasive or rasp variation ofelement 14.

With reference to FIG. 91, neural protection element 6 and tissueremoval device 14 are described in greater detail. As seen in FIG. 91A,window 204 of sheath 6 of neural protection element is disposed on theposterior-facing or working side of the sheath. In some variations, edge205 of window 200 is sharpened to coact with tissue removal device 14.This may be especially useful when the tissue removal device removestissue with a blade. In another variation, edge 205 or a portion thereofmay be energized, for example, to provide a negative control for neurallocalization, to ablate or denature impinging tissue and/or to achievehemostasis. In still further variations, edge 205 is both sharpened andconfigured to be energized.

Window 204 limits exposure of tissue removal surface of tissue removaldevice 14 only to the localized region of the patient's tissue whereselective tissue removal is desired. As seen in the cross-sectional viewof FIG. 91D, neural protection element 14 may completely surround tissueremoval device 6 in areas other than window 204. However, as seen in thecross-section of FIG. 91E, tissue removal surface 302 is exposed withinthe window. Window 204 may be positioned such that it directly underliesand faces the neural foramen and impinging tissue, as in FIGS. 61-64.Irrigation and/or aspiration optionally may be provided through thewindow 204, e.g., for debris removal. Suction also may be drawn throughthe window to engage impinging tissue and/or to provide a seal againstthe tissue. In some variations of neural protection element 6, thewindow optionally may be opened, closed or re-sized by a medicalpractitioner as desired. For example, the window may be closed duringdelivery, opened during selective removal of impinging tissue, thenclosed during retrieval of the sheath.

Neural protection element 6 preferably comprises an atraumatic profileto reduce tissue injury during placement and retrieval. For example, theelement may comprise rounded edges 82, as seen in FIGS. 91D and 91E. Thedevice preferably comprises a low profile having a width that is largerthan its height. The width may be any desired width; for example, whenused within the neural foramen, width may be up to the distance betweenadjacent pedicles within the foramen. In one variation, a width of lessthan about 7 mm may be provided. The height preferably provides for safeplacement of element between impinging tissue and nerve root 62. In onevariation, a height of less than about 2 mm may be provided. In onevariation, element has a length sufficient to allow for transforaminalpassage of the element, as well as positioning of ends of the elementoutside of the patient.

As seen in FIG. 91B, tissue removal device 14 comprises tissue removalsurface 302 having tissue removal elements. Tissue removal elements maybe chosen, for example, from a wide variety of abrasive elements,cutting elements, electrical ablation elements, or combinations thereof.In FIG. 91, tissue removal elements illustratively comprise sharpenedblade edges 118 for cutting through tissue and/or bone. Edges 118 may beformed, for example, by punching through tissue removal device 14 andoptionally sharpening the edges of the punch, for example, via agrinding process.

As seen in FIG. 91C, tissue removal device may be positioned withinneural protection element 6 such that tissue removal elements on tissueremoval surface 302 are locally exposed within window 204 of element.Edge 205 of window 204 may be sharpened to provide for guillotine-typecutting between sharpened edges 100 of the tissue removal device andedge 205 of the window. This may provide enhanced shear forces that maybe well adapted to cutting of soft tissue.

With reference again to FIGS. 61-64 in conjunction with FIG. 91, afterspinal neuroforaminal placement, tissue removal elements 302 of devicemay be used to selectively remove tissues that impinge on theneurovascular structures within the lateral recess and neural foramen,anterior to the facet joint, thereby enlarging the lateral recess andneural foramina via selective tissue removal. Impinging tissue to betargeted for removal may include, but is not limited to, lateralLigamentum Flavum, anterior and medial facet, and osteophytes. Tissueremoval may be achieved in a variety of ways.

FIG. 92 illustrate additional variations of mechanical tissue removalelements. In FIG. 92A, tissue removal elements 304 comprise coactingblades 340 and 342 that may be drawn across tissue to achieve ascissor-type cutting action. Edge 205 of window 204 of element 200 maybe sharpened to contribute to tissue cutting. In FIG. 92B, a series ofblades 344 and 346 cross and are sharpened on both sides forbidirectional or reciprocating scissor-type cutting. FIG. 92Cillustrates v-shaped blade or a scissor-type cutting variation whereinthe blades are formed through device coacting with sharp window edge.FIG. 92D illustrates a diamond cutting pattern for tissue removalsurface 302. FIG. 92E illustrates a more densely packed diamond cuttingpattern. FIG. 92F illustrates a variation wherein the cutting surfacesare angled along a common orientation. FIG. 92G illustrates a variationcomprising punched tissue removal elements and scalloped or cut-outedges of device 300, which edges optionally may be sharpened. FIG. 92Hillustrates a scissor-type cutting variation with scalloped or cut-outedges. Additional mechanical tissue removal elements will be apparent.

In another variation of tissue removal device, tissue removal elements304 comprises one or more electrosurgery elements for tissueremoval/ablation. The electrosurgery elements additionally oralternatively may be utilized to achieve hemostasis and/or to facilitateneural localization. Monopolar or bipolar RF elements may, for example,be utilized and may be activated with a thermal or substantiallynon-thermal waveform.

FIG. 93 illustrate an electrosurgical variation comprising a pluralityof wire loop electrodes 350 that serve as tissue removal elements 304.Wire loop electrodes 350 are located on tissue removal surface 302 ofdevice 300. Device 300 may, for example, comprise an electric textile ora flexible printed circuit board having wire loop electrodes 350. Theelectrodes may be brought into contact with impinging tissue, thenactuated to remove, singe, denature, or otherwise remodel the tissue.Optionally, tissue that has been treated electrosurgically may bescraped away after electrosurgical treatment in order to remove thetissue. Advantageously, in the variation of FIG. 93, device 300optionally may remain stationary during tissue removal. The deviceoptionally may be integrated with neural protection element 200 suchthat the wire loop electrodes are formed on the working side of theprotection element. In FIG. 93C, device 300 is shown disposed withinneural protection element 200, such that wire loop electrodes 350 arepositioned within window 204.

FIG. 94 illustrates an electrosurgical variation comprising bipolarelectrode pair 360 that serve as tissue removal elements 304 disposed ontissue removal surface 302 of device 300. Device 300 may, for example,comprise an electric textile or a flexible printed circuit board havingelectrode pair 360. The electrodes may be brought into contact withimpinging tissue, then actuated to remove the tissue. Advantageously, inthe variation of FIG. 94, device 300 optionally may remain stationaryduring tissue removal. The device optionally may be integrated withneural protection element 200 such that the bipolar electrode pair isformed on the working side of the protection element. For example, abipolar electrode pair may be formed across window 204, and theimpinging tissue optionally may be drawn within the window via suctionor some other means prior to electrosurgical removal.

FIG. 95 illustrates another electrosurgery variation of device 300wherein tissue removal surface 302 comprises a plurality ofelectrosurgery tissue removal elements 370, illustratively bipolarelectrode pairs. The bipolar electrodes may be actuated or energized,either concurrently or in any desired sequence, while surface 302 ofdevice 300 is drawn across impinging tissue to remove the tissue.

FIG. 96 illustrates a combined mechanical and electrosurgical tissueremoval device 300. Tissue removal surface 302 comprises mechanicaltissue removal elements 380, illustratively stamped or raised shaverblades, interspersed with electrosurgery tissue removal elements 370,illustratively bipolar electrode pairs.

FIG. 97 illustrates an exemplary method of using an electrosurgeryvariation of the tissue removal device. In FIG. 97, neural protectionelement 200 is delivered, illustratively via previously described accesselement 180. In this variation, element 200 illustratively comprises alocal backstop that does not extend out of the patient. Tissue removaldevice 300 is positioned between element 200 and the impinging tissue,and optionally may be anchored via temporary tissue anchor 390 toprovide leverage for pulling the device into contact with the impingingtissue. Electrosurgery tissue removal elements 304 then may be actuatedto remove the impinging tissue and/or provide hemostasis, etc. Althoughelement 200 and device 300 illustratively do not extend out of thepatient in the electrosurgery variation of FIG. 97, it should beunderstood that in other electrosurgery variations the elements mayextend outward through the patient's skin as described previously.

Referring now to FIG. 98, another variation of tissue removal device 300is described. As seen in FIG. 98A, tissue removal device 300 maycomprise flexible support 400 that may be positioned, for example,through or along neural protection element 200, or may be integratedwith the neural protection element. As seen in FIG. 98B, at least aportion of support 400 comprises wire saw 410 that is coupled to thesupport and serves as tissue removal element 304 disposed on the workingsurface of device 300. The wire saw may be drawn or reciprocated acrossimpinging tissue, such that saw 410 locally removes tissue. Sincesupport 400 is wider than wire saw 410, the support limits a depth ofcutting via wire saw 410.

The medical practitioner may move support 400 laterally while drawing orreciprocating the wire saw across tissue in order to enlarge a width ofthe region in which tissue is removed. Support 400 may limit a depth ofcutting during such lateral expansion of the cut area. When the lateralexpansion exceeds the width of support 400, cutting to greater depth maybe performed as desired. The width of the area of tissue removalalternatively or additionally may be enlarged or expanded by utilizingmultiple wire saws 410, as seen in FIG. 98C. The multiple saws may beadvanced initially, or may be advanced after creation of an initial cutwith a single saw such as that of FIG. 98B. Additional methods of usingthe variation of FIG. 98 for selective removal of tissue will beapparent.

With reference to FIG. 99, a variation of the tissue removal device ofFIG. 98 is described. As seen in FIG. 99, support 400 may comprisefenestrations 402 that facilitate passage of removed tissue through thefenestration for removal. FIG. 99A illustrates a segment of support 400without wire saw(s) 410, while FIG. 99B illustrates a segment with thewire saw. Wire saw(s) 410 may be coupled to the support or optionallymay be advanced into position along the support, then reciprocated ormoved in conjunction with the support, such that the support limits adepth of cutting via the saw(s). When tissue removal device 300 havingfenestrated support 400 is disposed within neural protection element200, fenestrations 402 may facilitate passage of removed tissue or otherdebris through the fenestrations, such that they are captured within theneural protection element between the neural protection element and thetissue removal device for removal from the patient.

Referring to FIG. 100, another variation of tissue removal device 300 isshown. In FIG. 100, tissue removal device 300 is integrated withinneural protection element 200. The tissue removal device comprisestissue removal elements 304 having blades 420, illustratively cup bladeswith sharpened edges. Blades 420 are coupled to drive shafts 422 thatrotate the blades (either individually or in unison) at high speed fortissue removal. Drive shafts 422 may be utilized (either individually orin unison) to advance and/or retract rotating blades 420 across window204 of neural protection element 200 for removal of tissue. Althoughdevice 300 illustrative comprises a plurality of blades 420 and driveshafts 422, it should be understood that the device alternatively maycomprise a single blade and drive shaft, or a single drive shaft forrotating multiple blades

Any other tissue removal elements 304 may be utilized with any of thevariations of tissue removal device 300, including, but not limited to,lasers, which may comprise one or more optical fibers for delivering alaser beam, high-pressure fluids, thermal elements, radioactiveelements, etc. It should be understood that various tissue removalelements may be used in any combination, as desired.

In one variation, device 300 may be reciprocated, either manually orunder power, to cut, abrade or otherwise remove tissue. FIG. 101illustrates a variation of tissue removal device 300 well-suited formanual reciprocation. In FIG. 101, device 300 illustratively compriseshandles 308, one or both of which may be detachable for placement and/orretrieval of the device. The medical practitioner may grasp the handlesand reciprocate device 300 to selective remove tissue impinging onwindow 204 of neural protection element 200.

In another variation, device 300 may be pulled in a single direction,either manually or under power, to remove tissue. FIG. 102 illustrates avariation of device 300 well-suited for unidirectional tissue removal,either manual or powered. In FIG. 102, device 300 comprises areel-to-reel configuration. Tissue removal elements 304 illustrativelycomprise abrasive regions 310 on tissue removal surface 302 of thedevice. The abrasive regions may, for example, comprise a diamond oroxide coating on surface 302. Abrasive regions 310 a, 310 b, 310 c, 310d, etc., become progressively less abrasive between reel 312 and reel314. In this manner, the location where tissue is selectively removedmay be smoothed or sanded with a progressively finer ‘grit’ as surface302 moves across the tissue in a single direction from reel 314 to reel312.

Tissue removal device 300 may be tapered, such that the width of thedevice increases as it is wound between the reels to provide for agradual decompression. The device optionally may comprise measuringelements 316, such as sensors or progressively larger sounds, fordetermining the effectiveness of decompression, thereby providing themedical practitioner with an indicator for when the reels may beadvanced. Tissue removal surface 302 optionally may comprise section 316that contacts the tissue surface after selective tissue removal fordelivery of bone wax, hemostatic agents such as thrombin,antiproliferative agents, steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatorydrugs, or any other therapeutic agent.

In one variation, the device includes a compression dressing asillustrated in the percutaneous embodiment described above in FIGS. 63and 64. Following neuroforaminal and lateral recess enlargement, it maybe advantageous to leave, as a surgical dressing, a belt or ribbonpulled tightly against the abraded tissue surface. It is expected that acompression dressing will enhance hemostasis, promote healing andpromote subsequent tissue remodeling with the neural foramen widelyopen. Furthermore, the surgical dressing would provide a barrier to traptissue debris away from neural or neurovascular structures, whileproviding an optional technique for delivering medication, possibly as adepot, to the operative site. The dressing would also present a smoothsurface towards the nerve root in the immediate post-operative period.

The neuroforaminal compression dressing may, in one preferredembodiment, comprise the optional protective sheath, percutaneously heldtightly in place against the abraded surface, after the abrasiveapparatus has been removed from its lumen, for a period of time.Alternatively or additionally, a separate percutaneously removablecompression dressing may be placed following tissue abrasion. Theabrasive material may be followed by a length of compression dressingmaterial on the same reel or spool, or a subsequent reel or spool.Alternatively, a compression dressing may be delivered through theneural foramen as a separate element. The compression element may alsobe used to deliver medications or other bioactive components (e.g.steroid, biodegradable adhesion barriers, etc.), to the surgical site.The compression dressing material may be, in one variation, partially orcompletely biodegradable. An entirely biodegradable compression dressingmay be placed tightly against the abraded surface, and left completelyimplanted following the procedure.

Whether placing the apparatus with an epidural needle 2; through theworking channel of an epidural needle 50; with an epidural endoscope; orduring an open surgical procedure; image guidance may be used tofacilitate safe and accurate placement. If the epidural needle 2 hasbeen replaced by, or converted to, an endoscope, direct visualization ofthe epidural space 42 may be accomplished. In this case, as illustratedin FIGS. 103-104, the clear tip of the fiberoptic scope will facilitatevisualization through the fat present in the epidural space 42. Thefiberoptic cable may be rigid or flexible, with the flat surface of itsdistal tip 66 perpendicular (0°, for straight ahead viewing) or at anangle (e.g. 30°, 45°, or 60°). The cannula may be closed at its end, asin FIGS. 103-114, covering and protecting the distal end of thefiberoptic cable with a clear tip 74 which may be solid, fluid, or gasfilled, potentially sized and shaped to expand the area of viewingwithin the fat filled epidural space 42. Additionally the endoscope or“needlescope” may contain an additional channel or space for infusion offluid into the epidural space, in order to facilitate visualization, tocreate a space for visualization, and/or to decrease bleeding byincreasing pressure, towards or above venous pressure, within theviewing area.

FIGS. 103 through 114 illustrate several embodiments of closed tipportals for epidural fiberoptic visualization. Some description of theseportals may be found in the text above. Basically, the portals showseveral preferred variations of designs that enable visualizationthrough the fat that exists in the epidural space. The clear tips of theportals may be solid and clear, or may contain air or clear liquid. Thevolume of the tip creates a space for improved perspective duringvisualization.

Referring now to FIG. 103, a hockey stick shaped portal facilitatessteering of the portal by rotation of the device. Such a design may beused with a flexible, partially flexible, or rigid fiberoptic element64. Besides steering the portal tip, the fiberoptic element may berotated separately in order to direct visualization, when angled scopetips are used (e.g. 30°, 45°, 60°). Alternative embodiments, asillustrated in FIG. 107, may allow the tip of the instrument to besteered. FIGS. 109-111, 113, and 114 illustrate means of deliveringtools along with the epidural endoscopic portals. Finally, FIG. 112 showa couple of different shapes of the many possible variations that may behelpful in improving visualization and access to the central canal,lateral recesses, neural foramen and posterior annulus of the spine.

FIG. 115 illustrates that a percutaneous access element, for example theepidural needle 2, can be deployed in the epidural space 42. The needle464 can have a sharpened distal needle tip 466. The needle 464 needle464 can be deployed via percutaneous or open procedures describedherein. The needle 464 can be deployed via percutaneous access to thelateral recess and neural foramen 110. The needle 464 can be inserted ator one level below the spinal interspace where tissue removal isdesired. The needle 464 can be inserted into the epidural space 42midline, ipsilateral, or contralateral to the area where the spinalcanal, lateral recess and/or neuroforaminal stenosis or impingement isto be treated. Percutaneous access can be aided by image guidance, anepidural endoscope, any other visualization technique, or combinationsthereof.

The needle 464 can have multiple barrels or lumen, for example a firstlumen and a second lumen (not shown). The first lumen can extenddistally of the second lumen. The first lumen and/or the second lumencan terminate in open or closed configurations at the needle tip 466.

FIG. 116 illustrates that a catheter 24 can then be deployed through theneedle 464 and into the epidural space 42, as shown by arrow. Thecatheter distal tip can have a protective hood 460 or a needle cap, forexample, over the needle tip 466.

FIG. 117 illustrates that when the catheter 24 has been placed in theepidural space 42, the user can open the hood 460, as shown by arrows.

FIG. 118 illustrates that after the hood 460 is opened, the catheter 24can be slidably retracted through the needle 464 until the hood 460firmly covers the needle tip 466. When the hood 460 firmly covers theneedle tip 466, the catheter 24 can be fixed to the needle 464. Theneedle 464 with the hood covering the needle tip 466 can be a bluntinstrument.

FIG. 119 illustrates that the needle 464 can be advanced, as shown byarrow, until the needle tip 466 is in a lateral recess 108, adjacent tothe neural foramina 110. The user can position the needle tip 466adjacent to the lateral recess 108 using tactile feedback from theneedle 464, image guidance (e.g. fluoroscopy), or combinations thereof.

FIG. 120 illustrates that a neural stimulation and localization device114 can be attached to the catheter 24 and/or needle 464 and or a devicewithin the needle or catheter, for example a tissue protection barrier(not shown). The neural stimulation and localization device 114 can havea controller. The neural stimulation and localization device 114 can beconfigured to selectively deliver and/or sense electrical current.

The user can visualize the epidural space 42, for example, via a fiberoptic element (not shown). The fiber optic element can be covered by aclear distal tip. The fiber optic element can be deployed to theepidural space 42 integral with, or separate from but within, thecatheter 24. The fiber optic element can be deployed to the epiduralspace 42 integral with, or separate from but within, the needle 464. Thefiber optic element can be deployed to the epidural space 42 via aworking space adjacent the needle 464. The user can deploy an epiduralendoscope, for example, to visualize the epidural space 42 including thelateral recess 108 and neural foramen 110.

An access element (not shown) that can have a cannulated probe such as acannulated ball-tipped probe, Woodson elevator, or Hockey Stick hybrid,can be placed into the epidural space 42. A curved element, such as anatraumatic needle, can then be advanced through the cannula of the probeand into the neural foramen 110. The curved element can cannulate theneural foramen 110.

FIG. 121 illustrates that a tissue protection element or barrier 528 canbe deployed through or with the needle 464, and/or the catheter 24,and/or a supplemental curved needle (not shown), and/or a shield (notshown), as shown by arrows. The tissue protection barrier 528 can bepart of a tissue removal apparatus. The tissue removal apparatus can befurther comprised by the needle, and/or hood.

The tissue protection barrier can be deployed into the lateral recess108 and/or the neural foramen 110. The tissue protection barrier 528 canbe deployed between the tissue to be removed, for example the impingingtissue 424, and the tissue to be protected, for example, the dura mater46 and associated neural (e.g., spinal cord, nerve roots, dorsal rootganglion) and neurovascular structures. The tissue protection barrier528 can have contracted and expanded configurations. During deployment,the tissue protection barrier 528 can be in the contracted or expandedconfigurations. The tissue protection barrier 528 can be separate from,or integral with, the catheter 24 and/or needle 464. The tissueprotection barrier 528 in a contracted configuration can be slidablyattached to the catheter 24 and/or the needle 464.

The tissue protection barrier 528 can have an atraumatic profile. Thetissue protection barrier 528 can have rounded edges. The tissueprotection barrier 528 can be a catheter, curved or straight needle,curved or straight shield, sheath, backstop, stent, net, screen, mesh orweave, panel, fan, coil, plate, balloon, accordioning panels, orcombinations thereof. The tissue protection barrier 528 can have atapered configuration.

The tissue protection barrier 528 can have a front side (i.e., workingside) and a back side (i.e., neural protection side). The front side 456can be electrically isolated from the back side 428. The front side 456can have an electrically conductive surface. The back side 428 can havean electrically conductive surface. The neural stimulation andlocalization device 114 can be in electrical communication with thefront side 456 and/or the back side 428.

Neural stimulation can be monitored via spinal somatosensory-evokedpotentials (SSEPs), motor-evoked potentials (MEPs), and/or by lookingfor visual signs of muscular contraction within the extremities. SSEP,SEP, MEP or electromyogram (EMG) feedback can be monitored and/orrecorded visually, and/or can be monitored audibly, potentiallyconveying quantitative feedback related to the volume or frequency ofthe auditory signal (e.g. a quantitative auditory feedback). Intensityof signal or stimulation can be monitored and used to localize the nerveduring placement.

The neural stimulation and localization device 114 can deliverelectrical current to the front side 462. If there is a nervous systemresponse, the tissue protection barrier 528 can be retracted andredeployed with the front side and the back side switched. The neuralstimulation and localization device 114 can then deliver electricalcurrent to the front side 456 again and the tissue protection barrier528 can be readjusted and redeployed until there is no nervous systemresponse from delivering electrical current to the front side 456.

The neural stimulation and localization device 114 can deliverelectrical current to the back side 428. If there is no nervous systemresponse, the tissue protection barrier 528 can be retracted andredeployed with the front side and the back side switched. The neuralstimulation and localization device 114 can then deliver electricalcurrent to the back side 428 again and the tissue protection barrier 528can be redeployed and readjusted until there is a nervous systemresponse from delivering electrical current to the back side 428.

The neural stimulation and localization device 114 can deliverelectrical current to the back side 428 and the front side 456 and thetissue protection barrier 528 can be readjusted and redeployed untilthere is a nervous system response from delivering electrical current tothe back side 428 and no nervous system response from the front side456.

The user can deploy to the neural foramen 110 and/or the lateral recess108 one or more surgical stimulating and monitoring instruments (e.g.,cautery devices, graspers, shavers, burrs, probes, combinations thereof)that can selectively stimulate electrically while monitoring nervestimulation. The surgical can quantify the stimulation to localize theneural tissue (e.g., dura mater, spinal cord, spinal root, dorsal rootganglion). For instance, the user can use a calibrated sensor input thatrecognizes stronger stimulation as the device is moved closer to neuralstructures.

FIG. 122 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can betransformed, as shown by arrows, into the expanded configuration. Thehood 460 can be retracted toward the needle 464. A balloon (not shown)can be inflated within the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissueprotection barrier 528 can be twisted with respect to itself. Anelectrical current and/or heat can be applied to the tissue protectionbarrier 528, for example, that can be made from a shape memory alloy.The hood retracting, and/or balloon inflating, and/or tissue protectionbarrier 528 twisting with respect to itself, and/or heating can expandthe tissue protection barrier 528.

A spring can be inside the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissueprotection barrier can be the spring, for example when the tissueprotection barrier 528 is or has a self-expandable stent or mesh. Thespring can be releasably fixed in a compressed state when the tissueprotection barrier 528 is in the contracted configuration. Whenreleased, the spring can expand the tissue protection barrier 528. Thespring can be released by a trigger mechanism.

The expansion of the tissue protection barrier 528 can apply anon-damaging pressure to the nerve branches 62. The tissue protectionbarrier 528 can have a window 536. The window 536 can be open in thecontracted and/or expanded configuration of the tissue protectionbarrier 528.

FIG. 123 illustrates that a tissue removal device 300 can be attachedto, and/or slidably deployed along, through, around or over the needle464 and/or the catheter 24. The tissue removal device 300 can bedeployed between the impinging tissue 424 and the tissue protectionbarrier 528. The tissue removal device 300 can have a control handleextending from the proximal end of the needle 464. The tissue removaldevice 300 can be exposed to the impinging tissue through the window 536(e.g., needlette ports 472).

The tissue removal device 300 can have an energy delivery system (notshown). The energy delivery system can be configured to deliver one ormore energies to tissue adjacent to the energy delivery system. Theenergies can be configured to ablate, vaporize, break up, combinationsthereof, or otherwise change the modulus of the tissue. The tissueremoval device 300 can be configured to deliver electrical, ultrasound,thermal, microwave, laser, cryo (i.e., removing thermal energy), orcombinations thereof.

The tissue removal device 300 can have one or more electrosurgeryelements (not shown). The electrosurgery elements can be configured toremove and/or ablate tissue. The electrosurgery elements can achievehemostasis and/or neural localization in tissue adjacent to theelectrosurgery elements. The electrosurgery elements can have monopolaror bipolar RF elements. The RF elements can be activated with a thermalor substantially non-thermal waveform.

The tissue removal device 300 can have or be lasers, high-pressurefluid, thermal elements, radioactive elements, textile electricconductors, conductive wire loops and/or needles configured to be usedin tissue contact (e.g., needle ablation), springs, open and/or springwire weaves, conductive polymers that can have conductive metalschemically deposited thereon, or combinations thereof.

FIG. 124 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300, for example theenergy delivery system, can transmit energy 44 to the tissue to beremoved, for example, the impinging tissue 424. The energy 44 can alterthe compression, denaturation, electrosurgical exposure, thermalremodeling (hot or cold), chemical alteration, epoxy or glues orhydrogels, modulus of elasticity, or any combination thereof of theimpinging tissue 424. For example, the modulus of elasticity of softimpinging tissue 424 can be increased. An increased modulus ofelasticity can improve purchase on the soft impinging tissue 424 withthe tissue removal device 300. Remodeling of the tissue during modulusalteration can alleviate impingement and obviate or reduce a need fortissue removal.

The tissue removal device 300 can be designed to automatically stimulatethe site of tissue removal, or have the neural stimulation andlocalization device 114 stimulate the site of tissue removal, before orduring tissue removal. The tissue removal device 300 can be configuredto automatically stop tissue removal when nerve stimulation is sensed bythe front side 456, and/or no nerve stimulation is sensed by the backside 428.

FIG. 125 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can have one ormore non-powered mechanical tissue removal elements. The non-poweredmechanical tissue removal elements can be abrasives such as abrasivebelts or ribbons, cutting elements such as blades, knives, scissors orsaws, rongeurs, grinders, files, debriders, scrapers, graters, forks,picks, burrs, rasps, shavers, or combinations thereof.

An external activating force, for example as shown by arrow 530(activating tissue removal) on a handle, can activate the tissue removaldevice 300, as shown by arrow 530 (tissue removal device operating). Themechanical tissue removal elements can be used in combination or not incombination with the energy delivery device. The mechanical tissueremoval elements can be pushed into and/or drawn across the impingingtissue 424 to remove the tissue by cutting, shaving, slicing,scissoring, guillotining, scraping, tearing, abrading, debriding,poking, mutilating, or combinations thereof. The mechanical tissueremoval elements (e.g., blades) can be drawn across the impinging tissue424 in a single direction and/or can be reciprocated. The mechanicaltissue removal elements can be manually controlled and/orelectronically, pneumatically or hydraulically powered. The mechanicaltissue removal elements can be embedded with abrasives and/or haveabrasive coatings, such as a diamond or oxide coating.

The blades can have various shapes, sizes and configurations. The bladescan coact, for example, in a guillotine-type or scissor-type cuttingaction. The blades can be attached to or integral with the tissueremoval device. The blades can be formed by grinding, punching orstamping through the tissue removal device. The blades can be formed bygrinding of a punched or stamped edge of the tissue removal device. Theblades can be formed by a chemical etching process. The blades can havea 3-dimensional profile to facilitate cutting, for example, a bow or acorrugation or a ‘cheese grater’ profile. The blades can be placed atone or more angles relative to the direction of tissue removal. Theblades can be configured with the blade cutting across the tissue (i.e.,similar to a band saw). The blades can have cutting surfaces. Thecutting surfaces can be oriented in a single or multiple directions. Theblades can be serrated.

The saw can be a wire saw or saws. The wire saw can be a Gigli saw:Multiple wire saws or Gigli saws can be joined or woven together orflattened to form a substantially planar cutting surface. The wire sawcan be mounted on a flat ribbon. The ribbon can be a depth stop, forexample, limiting for saw penetration.

The tissue removal device 300 can have one or more powered mechanicaltissue removal elements. The powered mechanical tissue removal elementscan have, for example, band saws, belt shavers, rotary burrs or blades,reciprocating burrs or blades, or combinations thereof.

Devices and elements known to those having ordinary skill in the art canbe used to remove debris from, and/or irrigate, and/or provide suctionto, the epidural space 42 including the lateral recess 108 and neuralforamen 110 and/or to the tissue removal device itself. The devices andelements for removing debris can be integral with the needle 464 and/orthe catheter 24. Debris removal, and/or suction and/or irrigation may beprovided intermittently or continuously, as desired by the medicalpractitioner. Debris removal can include suction and/or irrigation. Thetissue removal device 300 can capture debris. Irrigation and/or suctionin the tissue removal device 300 can remove the debris from the tissueremoval device 300, for example by the debris exiting along the needle464 and/or catheter 24.

FIG. 126 illustrates that when tissue removal device 300 removes enoughimpinging tissue to reduce the pressure on the neural (e.g., nerveroots, spinal cord, dorsal root ganglion) and neurovascular tissue, thetissue removal device 300 can be removed from the tissue protectionbarrier 528, and/or the needle 464, and/or the catheter 24. The tissueremoval device can be withdrawn from the skin 70, as shown in FIG. 127.

FIG. 128 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can betransformed into a contracted configuration, as shown by arrows. FIG.129 illustrates that the needle tip can be translatably retracted, asshown by arrow, from the neural foramen 110 and lateral recess 108. FIG.130 illustrates that the needle can be translatably withdrawn from thespine 510 and the skin 70.

FIG. 131 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can beslidably attached to a tissue removal device 300. The tissue removaldevice 300 can have one or more needlettes 468. The needlettes 468 canbe configured to be individually slidable within the tissue removaldevice 300. The needlettes 468 can each have a needlette tip 474. Theneedlette tips 474 can be covered, coated or otherwise have a surfaceand/or by completely made from an electrically conductive material. Theneedlette 468, for example other than the needlette tip 474, can becovered, coated or otherwise have a surface made from an electricallyresistive or insulating material. The surface of the needlette tips 474can be conductive. The needlette tips 474 can be electrodes. The surfaceof the non-tip remainder of the needlette 468 can be resistive and/orinsulating.

The tissue removal device 300 can have an energy delivery system, suchas including the neural stimulation and localization device 114 and theneedlette tips. The energy delivery system can be configured to deliverone or more energies to tissue adjacent to the energy delivery system.The energies can be configured to ablate, vaporize, break up,combinations thereof, or otherwise change the modulus of the tissue. Thetissue removal device 300, for example via the needlette tips 474, canbe configured to deliver electrical, ultrasound, thermal, microwave,laser, cryo (i.e., removing thermal energy), or combinations thereof,energy 44.

The tissue removal device 300 can have one or more electrosurgeryelements, for example the needlette tips 474. The electrosurgeryelements can be configured to remove and/or ablate tissue. Theelectrosurgery elements can achieve hemostasis and/or neurallocalization in tissue adjacent to the electrosurgery elements. Theelectrosurgery elements can have monopolar or bipolar RF elements. TheRF elements can be activated with a thermal or substantially non-thermalwaveform.

The tissue removal device 300, for example at the needlette tips 474,can have or be lasers, high-pressure fluid, thermal elements,radioactive elements, textile electric conductors, conductive wire loopsand/or needles configured to be used in tissue contact (e.g., needleablation), springs, open and/or spring wire weaves, conductive polymersthat can have conductive metals chemically deposited thereon, orcombinations thereof.

FIGS. 132 and 133 illustrate that the needlettes 468 can be the tissueremoval devices 300. The needlettes 468 can be slidably attacheddirectly to the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissue protectionbarrier 528 (and/or tissue removal device 300) can have one or morewindows, for example needlette ports 472. The needlettes 468 can beconfigured to slidably extend through the needlette ports 472. Theneedlette ports 472 can be on the front side 456. The needlette ports472 can be on a working surface 538 of the tissue protection barrier 528(as shown) or tissue removal device.

The tissue protection barrier 528 (and/or tissue removal device 300) canhave needlette conduits 470. The needlettes can be slidably attached toneedlette conduits 470. The needlette 468 can be solid. The needlette468 can be hollow. The needlette 468 can have a conducting wire (notshown) extending therethrough. The needlette tips 474 can be sharp ordull.

FIG. 134 illustrates that the needlette tip 474 can have a shaper orscoop 496, such as a grater or shredder. The scoop 496 can have a tissueentry port 524. The scoop 496 can be open and in fluid communicationwith a hollow needlette 468. The scoop 496 can have a leading edge 462,for example partially or completely around the perimeter of the tissueentry port 524. The leading edge 462 can be sharpened and/or dulled. Theleading edge 462 can be beveled. The leading edge 462 can beelectrically conductive. The leading edge 462 can be configured to, emitRF energy. The leading edge 462 can be a wire. The needlette tip 474other than the leading edge can be electrically resistive.

FIG. 135 illustrates that the needlette tip 474 can have a tip hole 520.The tip hole 520 can have a sharpened perimeter. The tip hole 520 can bethe tissue entry port 524. The tip hole can be in fluid communicationwith the hollow needlette 468.

FIG. 136 illustrates that the first needlette tips 474 can deploy, suchas by translatably extending, as shown by arrow, from the tissueprotection barrier 528 into the impinging tissue 424. The firstneedlette tips 474 can be configured to deploy in a first deploymentdirection.

FIGS. 137 and 138 illustrate that the second needlette tips 474 candeploy, such as by translatably extending, as shown by arrow, from thetissue protection barrier 528 into the impinging tissue 424. Theneedlette tips 474 can be deployed deeper than the surface of theimpinging tissue 424.

The second needlette tips 474 can be configured to deploy in a seconddeployment direction. The first deployment direction can form adeployment angle with respect to the second deployment direction. Thefirst deployment direction and the second deployment direction canconfigured to fixedly attach the first and second needlette tips to theimpinging tissue 424. The deployment angle can be from about 90 degreesto about 270 degrees, more narrowly from about 90 degrees to about 180degrees, for example about 120 degrees (as shown in FIG. 137).

FIGS. 139 and 143 illustrate that the needlettes 468, for example onlythrough the needlette tips 474, can deliver energy 44 into or onto theimpinging tissue. The energy 44 can be acoustic, electrical (e.g.,monopolar or bipolar RF), direct heat or cold, or combinations thereof.The energy 44 can ablate and/or evaporate the impinging tissue 424. Theenergy 44 can be delivered deeper than the surface of the impingingtissue 424. The energy 44 can be created and/or delivered to theneedlette tips 474 by the neural stimulation and localization device114.

The tissue removal device 300, for example the energy delivery system,can transmit an energy 44 to the tissue to be removed, for example, theimpinging tissue 424. The energy 44 can alter the compression,denaturation, electrosurgical exposure, thermal remodeling (hot orcold), chemical alteration, epoxy or glues or hydrogels, modulus ofelasticity, or any combination thereof of the impinging tissue 424. Forexample, the modulus of elasticity of soft impinging tissue 424 can beincreased. An increased modulus of elasticity can improve purchase onthe soft impinging tissue 424 with the tissue removal device 300.Remodeling of the tissue during modulus alteration can alleviateimpingement and obviate or reduce a need for tissue removal.

The tissue removal device 300 can be designed to automatically stimulatethe site of tissue removal, or have the neural stimulation andlocalization device 114 stimulate the site of tissue removal, before orduring tissue removal. The tissue removal device 300 can be configuredto automatically stop tissue removal when nerve stimulation is sensed bythe front side 456, and/or no nerve stimulation is sensed by the backside 428.

FIG. 140 illustrates that the needlettes 468 can remove the impingingtissue 424, for example by suction and/or debridement through holes inor adjacent to the needlette tips 474.

FIG. 141 illustrates that the second needlette tips 474 can beretracted, as shown by arrow, into the tissue protection barrier 528.The first needlette tips 474 can be retracted into the tissue protectionbarrier 528.

FIG. 142 illustrates that the hood 460 can be retracted, as shown byarrow, onto the needle 464. The needle 464 can be withdrawn from thetreatment site.

FIG. 144 illustrates that the tissue removal apparatus can have thetissue removal device 300 and the tissue protection barrier 528. Thetissue removal device 300 can be slidably attached to an inside conduit,channel or hollow of the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissueremoval device 300 can have the working surface 538. The working surface538 can be configured to damage, and/or destroy, and/or remove theimpinging tissue. Part or all of the working surface 538 can be exposedthrough the window 536. The window 536 can be on the front side of thetissue protection barrier 528. The tissue barrier protection 528 canhave and/or elute a lubricious coating or material, for example on thesurface of the inside conduit, channel or hollow. The tissue removaldevice 300 can have and/or elute a lubricious coating or material on theentire surface and/or on the surface other than on the working surface538.

FIG. 145 illustrates that a method of using the tissue removal apparatus538 can include deploying the window adjacent to the impinging tissue424. A tension, as shown by arrows 518, can be applied to the tissueprotection barrier 528. The tissue removal device 300 can bereciprocated or oscillated, as shown by arrows 476. The oscillation can,for example, result in the working surface 538 to separate impingingtissue 424. The separated impinging tissue 424 can be removed, forexample by suction, through the tissue protection barrier 528 and/or thetissue removal device 300. Section D can be equivalent to sections A, B,or C.

The working surface 538 can have one or more non-powered mechanicaltissue removal elements. The non-powered mechanical tissue removalelements can be abrasives such as abrasive belts or ribbons, cuttingelements such as blades, knives, scissors or saws, rongeurs, grinders,files, debriders, scrapers, graters, forks, picks, burrs, rasps,shavers, or combinations thereof.

The mechanical tissue removal elements can be used in combination or notin combination with the energy delivery device. The mechanical tissueremoval elements can be pushed into and/or drawn across the impingingtissue 424 to remove the tissue by cutting, shaving, slicing,scissoring, guillotining, scraping, tearing, abrading, debriding,poking, mutilating, or combinations thereof. The mechanical tissueremoval elements (e.g., blades) can be drawn across the impinging tissue424 in a single direction and/or can be reciprocated. The mechanicaltissue removal elements can be manually controlled and/orelectronically, pneumatically or hydraulically powered. The mechanicaltissue removal elements can be embedded with abrasives and/or haveabrasive coatings, such as a diamond or oxide coating.

The blades can have various shapes, sizes and configurations. The bladescan coact, for example, in a guillotine-type or scissor-type cuttingaction. The blades can be attached to or integral with the tissueremoval device. The blades can be formed by grinding, punching orstamping through the tissue removal device. The blades can be formed bygrinding of a punched or stamped edge of the tissue removal device. Theblades can be formed by a chemical etching process. The blades can havea 3-dimensional profile to facilitate cutting, for example, a bow or acorrugation or a ‘cheese grater’ profile. The blades can be placed atone or more angles relative to the direction of tissue removal. Theblades can be configured with the blade cutting across the tissue (i.e.,similar to a band saw). The blades can have cutting surfaces. Thecutting surfaces can be oriented in a single or multiple directions. Theblades can be serrated.

The saw can be a wire saw or saws. The wire saw can be a Gigli saw.Multiple wire saws or Gigli saws can be joined or woven together orflattened to form a substantially planar cutting surface. The wire sawcan be mounted on a flat ribbon. The ribbon can be a depth stop, forexample, limiting for saw penetration.

The tissue removal device 300 can have one or more powered mechanicaltissue removal elements. The powered mechanical tissue removal elementscan have, for example, band saws, belt shavers, rotary burrs or blades,reciprocating burrs or blades, or combinations thereof.

Devices and elements known to those having ordinary skill in the art canbe used to remove debris from, and/or irrigate, and/or provide suctionto, the epidural space 42 including the lateral recess 108 and neuralforamen 110 and/or to the tissue removal device itself. The devices andelements for removing debris can be integral with the needle 464 and/orthe catheter 24. Debris removal, and/or suction and/or irrigation may beprovided intermittently or continuously, as desired by the medicalpractitioner. Debris removal can include suction and/or irrigation. Thetissue removal device 300 can capture debris. Irrigation and/or suctionin the tissue removal device 300 can remove the debris from the tissueremoval device 300, for example by the debris exiting along the needle464 and/or catheter 24.

FIG. 146 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can have afirst rail 452 and a second rail 500. The tissue protection barrier 528can be rigid, flexible or combinations thereof The tissue protectionbarrier 528 can be resilient or deformable. The first rail 452 and/orsecond rail 500 can be rounded to form atraumatic sides of the tissueprotection barrier 528. The first rail 452 and/or second rail 500 can beconfigured to slidably attach to the tissue removal device 300. Thefirst rail 452 and/or second rail 500 can be configured to snap fitand/or interference fit to the tissue removal device 300.

The tissue protection barrier 528 can have a tissue protection barriertest strength. The tissue protection barrier test strength can be equalto or less than about 890 N (200 lbs.), more narrowly equal to or lessthan about 710 (160 lbs.), yet more narrowly equal to or less than about350 N (80 lbs.), for example about 180 N (40 lbs.).

The tissue protection barrier 528 can have a taper 516 at a first end.The taper 516 can be configured to dissect tissue, for example, duringdeployment. The taper 516 can be configured to bluntly dissect tissue,for example, during deployment. The taper 516 can be configured to beatraumatic, for example, not being able to substantially dissect tissueduring deployment. The taper 516 can be configured to interference fitthe tissue removal device 300.

FIG. 147 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can have awire, such as a distal wire 440. The distal wire 440 can be integralwith, or fixedly attached to, the taper 516. The distal wire 440 canextend from the taper 516. The distal wire 440 can have a wire teststrength. The wire test strength can be equal to or less than about 890N (200 lbs.), more narrowly equal to or less than about 710 (160 lbs.),yet more narrowly equal to or less than about 350 N (80 lbs.), forexample about 180 N (40 lbs.).

During use, the distal wire 440 and/or the taper 516 can be deployedposteriorly exiting the skin. During use, the distal wire 440 and/or thetaper 516 can be deployed posteriorly around or through the spine,exiting the spine and deploying substantially to the site at which theneedle and/or tissue protection barrier entered. The distal wire 440and/or the taper 516 can be secured to a substantially fixed location(e.g., the skin, the spine, the user's hand). Additional force can beapplied, for example, posteriorly on the tissue protection barrier(e.g., on the first end, and/or a second end). The tissue protectionbarrier 528 can be forced into the impinging tissue 424.

FIG. 148 illustrates that the distal wire 440 can be attached to adistal wire anchor 442. The distal wire anchor 442 can be fixedly orremovably attached to the distal wire 440 after deployment of the distalwire 440 exiting the skin 70 and/or the spine 510. The distal wireanchor 442 can be integral with the distal wire 440. The distal wireanchor 442 can be expandable. The distal wire anchor 442 can beresilient or deformable. The distal wire anchor 442 can have acontracted configuration before deployment. The distal wire anchor 442can be held in the contracted configuration by a removable sheath.

FIG. 149 illustrates that the shield 528 or distal wire can be slidablyand/or fixedly attached to a distal wire sleeve and/or anchor lock 442.The distal wire sleeve and/or anchor lock 442 can fix the distal wireanchor 442 to the distal wire 440, or may provide protection for thetissues while the wire is pulled throught said distal sleeve 438. Thedistal wire sleeve 438 or anchor lock can interference fit and/orfriction fit the distal wire anchor 442. The distal wire sleeve 438 oranchor lock can be fixedly or removably attached to the distal wire 440after deployment of the distal wire 440 exiting the skin and/or thespine. The distal wire sleeve 438 or anchor lock can be integral withthe shield or backstop or distal wire. The distal wire sleeve 438 oranchor lock can be expandable. The distal wire sleeve 438 or anchor lockcan be resilient or deformable. The distal wire sleeve 438 or anchorlock can have a contracted configuration before deployment. The distalanchor lock 438 can be held in the contracted configuration by aremovable sheath.

The distal anchor lock 438 can be integral with, or fixedly attached to,the taper 516. The distal anchor lock 438 can extend from the taper 516.The distal anchor lock 438 can have a test strength. The test strengthcan be equal to or less than about 890 N (200 lbs.), more narrowly equalto or less than about 710 (160 lbs.), yet more narrowly equal to or lessthan about 350 N (80 lbs.), for example about 180 N (40 lbs.).

The distal wire 440 can be integral with, or fixedly attached to, thetissue removal device 300 (not shown in FIG. 149). The distal wire 440can extend from the tissue removal device 300. The distal wire 440 canbe slidably attached to the distal anchor lock 438. The tissue removaldevice 300 can be slidably attached to the tissue protection barrier528. During use, the distal wire 440 can be slidably translated withinthe distal wire anchor 442. Translation of the distal wire 440 canslidably translate the tissue removal device 300. The tissue removaldevice 300 can be reciprocated, for example, when alternatingtranslations are applied on either end of the tissue removal device 300,such as when applied by a distal wire 440 and/or a proximal wire.

FIG. 150 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can have afirst taper 516 at a first end and a second taper 516 at a second end.The tissue protection barrier 528 can have a proximal wire 484 and adistal wire 440. The proximal wire 484 can be integral with, or fixedlyattached to, the first taper 516. The proximal wire 484 can extend fromthe first taper 516. The distal wire 440 can be integral with, orfixedly attached to, the second taper 516. The distal wire 440 canextend from the second taper 516.

The tissue protection barrier 528 can have one or more wires and notapers 540. The wires can extend from be integral with, or fixedlyattached to, and/or extend from non-tapered ends.

FIG. 151 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can have afirst taper 516 at a first end, a second taper 516 at a second end, aproximal wire 484, a distal wire 440, and a distal wire anchor 442attached to, or integral with, the distal wire 440. FIG. 152 illustratesthat the tissue protection barrier 528 can have a first taper 516 at afirst end, a second taper 516 at a second end, a proximal wire 484, adistal wire 440, a proximal wire anchor 482 attached to, or integralwith, the proximal wire 484, and a distal wire anchor 442 attached to,or integral with, the distal wire 440. FIG. 153 illustrates that thetissue protection barrier 528 can have a first taper 516 at a first end,a second taper 516 at a second end, a proximal wire 484, a distal wire440, a proximal wire anchor 482 attached to, or integral with, theproximal wire 484, and a distal wire anchor 442 attached to, or integralwith, the distal wire 440. The distal wire 440 can be slidably and/orfixedly attached to a distal wire sleeve and/or anchor lock. Theproximal wire 484 can be slidably and/or fixedly attached to a proximalwire sleeve and/or anchor lock 442. The distal wire sleeve 438 may be anextension of the neuroforaminal protection barrier 528, through whichthe wire 440 is passed in order to prevent damage through abrasion ofvulnerable tissues.

FIG. 154 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier 528 can have aport 478 at a first end. The tissue removal device 300 can have a taper516 at a first end. The tissue removal device 300 can have a leading end462 at the first end. The leading edge 462 can be configured to beatraumatic. The tissue removal device 300 can have a first rail 452 anda second rail 500. The first rail 452 and/or the second rail 500 of thetissue removal device 300 can be configured to be atraumatic. The tissueprotection barrier 528 can have a first rail and a second rail (notshown in FIGS. 154-157).

FIG. 32 illustrates that the leading edge 462 can be translatablyinserted, as shown by arrow, into the port 478. The tissue protectionbarrier 528 can expand to receive the tissue removal device 300. Thetissue protection barrier 528 can expand in a tapered configurationaround the taper 516 of the tissue removal device 300. The first rail452 and/or the second rail 500 of the tissue removal device 300 canslidably attach to the first rail and/or the second rail of the tissueprotection barrier 528.

FIG. 156 illustrates that the tissue removal device can be furthertranslatably inserted, as shown by arrow, into the tissue protectionbarrier 528.

FIG. 157 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can be furthertranslatably inserted, as shown by arrow, into the tissue protectionbarrier 528. The window 536 can expose the tissue removal device 300 onthe front side 456 of the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissueremoval device 300 can snap fit, interference fit, friction fit, orotherwise fix to the tissue protection barrier 528, for example when thetissue removal device 300 has been inserted to a required length intothe tissue protection barrier 528.

FIG. 158 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can have one ormore tissue conduits 522. The tissue conduits 522 can be channels orconduits. The tissue conduits 522 can be open at a tissue entry port 478and/or a tissue exit 526. A leading edge 462 can be around or adjacentto the perimeter of the tissue entry port 478. The leading edge 462 canbe a conductor (e.g., and RF device, such as a wire). The leading edge462 can be sharp and/or dull. The leading edge 462 can be beveled. Pairsof tissue entry ports 524 can oppose each other, as shown, therebyenabling removal of tissue when the tissue removal device is translatedin both longitudinal directions. During use, the separated tissue can beremoved via the tissue conduits 522.

FIGS. 159 and 160 illustrate that the tissue removal device 300 can haveshapers or scoops 496, such as graters or shredders. The scoops 496 canhave tissue entry port 478. The scoops 496 can be open and in fluidcommunication with one or more tissue conduits. The scoops 496 can haveleading edges 462, for example partially or completely around theperimeter of the tissue entry port 478. The leading edge 462 can besharpened and/or dulled. The leading edge 462 can be electricallyconductive. The leading edge 462 can be configured to emit RF energy.The leading edge 462 can be a wire. The tissue removal device 300 otherthan the leading edge 462 can be electrically resistive and/orinsulating.

FIG. 161 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can have springs512. The springs 512 can be fixedly or removably attached to the tissueremoval device 300. The springs 512 can be attached through the tissueremoval device 300, for example into the tissue conduit 522. The tissueremoval device 300 can open into the tissue conduit 522 where thesprings 512 attach, for example, sufficient to allowing fluidcommunication through the tissue removal device. The springs can besharpened and/or dulled. The springs 512 can have flat ribbon coils, andor other coils configured to cut the impinging tissue.

FIG. 162 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can be expanded,as shown by arrows. The springs 512 can expand and/or contract with thetissue removal device.

FIG. 163 illustrates that the spring 512 can be fixedly or removablyattached to, or integral with, a base 430. The base 430 can be madefrom, for example, a high temperature epoxy (e.g., from EpoxyTechnology, Billerica, Mass.), a high temperature plastic, orcombinations thereof. High temperature plastics can include, forexample, liquid crystal polymer, polysulfones, or polyimide.

The springs 512 can be in electrical communication with a circuit, forexample the neural stimulation and localization device. The circuit canhave a ground 116, a power source 480, and a switch 514. The powersource 480 can have a frequency range from about 100 kHz to about 10MHz. The springs 512 can be grounded at one or more points. The circuitcan create a monopolar spring 512. The base 430 can electricallyinsulate the spring 512 and the remainder of the tissue removal device300 (e.g., a ribbon). The circuit can be closed during use.

The spring 512 can have various configurations to alter the cuttingperformance. For example, the spring can have a circular configuration.

The springs 512 can emit low level voltage prior to tissue removal, forexample, to check for nerve stimulation.

FIG. 164 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can have a firstspring 512 and a second spring 512. The first spring 512 can beseparated from the second spring 512 by a gap distance 458. The gapdistance 458 can be from about 100 μm to about 5 cm. The first spring512 and the second spring 512 can be concurrently attached to thecircuit. The first spring 512 can be in direct electrical communicationwith the second spring 512.

The impedance between the first spring 512 and the second spring 512 canbe monitored. For example, if the impedance exceeds threshold values(e.g., the impedance of burning tissue), the circuit can be configuredto open.

FIG. 165 illustrates that the tissue removal device can have multiplesprings 512. The springs 512 can be in electrical communication with acontroller 434 in the circuit. The controller 434 can transmit currentto any combination of springs 512. The controller 434 can monitor theimpedance between springs 512. The controller 434 can open the circuitto a particular spring if the impedance exceeds a threshold.

FIG. 166 illustrates the tissue removal device 300 that can have thesprings 512 in a non-contracted (e.g., expanded) configuration. FIG. 167illustrates that the sides of the tissue removal device 300 can befolded, as shown by arrows, to contract the tissue removal device 300,for example for deployment or retraction from a patient's body. Thesprings 512 can contract and/or expand with the contraction and/orexpansion of the tissue removal device 300.

FIG. 168 illustrates the tissue removal apparatus 300 that can bepartially deployed percutaneously (i.e., through the skin 70) in thespine. FIG. 169 illustrates that the distal wire 440 can be translatablyextended, as shown by arrow, from the distal end of the tissueprotection barrier 528. FIG. 170 illustrates that the distal wire 440can translatably extend, as shown by arrow, through the skin 70. FIG.171 illustrates that a distal wire anchor 442 can removably attach tothe distal wire 440. The distal wire 440 can be fixed, for example, atthe surface of the skin 70.

FIG. 172 illustrates that the leading edge 462 can be pressed into theimpinging tissue 424, for example as a result of the tension 518 on thetissue protection barrier 528 and/or tension applied to the tissueremoval device 300 during the oscillation 479. The leading edge 462 canpurchase the impinging tissue 424. The leading edge 462 can beactivated, for example be delivering RF energy to the leading edge.

FIG. 173 illustrates that the tissue removal device 300 can betranslated, as shown by arrow 534, with respect to the impinging tissue424. The leading edge 462 can cut into the impinging tissue 424. Thescoop 496 can force separation, as shown by arrow 506, of the cutimpinging tissue 424 from the remaining impinging tissue 424.

FIG. 174 illustrates that the removed tissue 488 can be removed from thetissue removal device 300 (as shown) or the tissue protection barrier528, for example by suction.

FIGS. 175 and 176 illustrate that the tissue removal apparatus 300 canhave a deployment cover 436 over the tissue protection cover 528 priorto, and during, deployment. The deployment cover 436 can be slidablyattached to the tissue removal device 300. The tissue removal device 300can be expandable, for example a self-expandable coil spring. The tissueprotection barrier 528 can be expandable, for example a self-expandablecoil-reinforced polymer lube (e.g., a stent-graft). The deployment cover436 can be rigid, for example, to prevent the tissue removal device 300and/or the tissue protection barrier 528 from expanding. The tissueremoval device 300 and/or tissue protection barrier .528 can be manuallyexpandable, for example by having an integrated or attached mechanicalexpansion device (e.g., an inflation balloon) and/or from being madefrom shape memory alloy that reconfigures when heated.

FIG. 177 illustrates that the deployment cover 436 can be retracted, asshown by arrow 492. The tissue protection barrier 528 not covered by thedeployment cover 436 can radially expand, as shown by arrows 492. Forexample, the tissue removal device 300 and/or the tissue protectionbarrier can self-expand and/or manually expand.

FIG. 178 illustrates that the deployment cover 436 can be retracted, asshown by arrow 492. The window 536 can be exposed. The deployment cover436 can be completely removed from the tissue protection barrier 528.The tissue protection barrier 528 can be re-covered by the deploymentcover 436, for example, immediately before the tissue protection barrier528 is removed from the treatment site.

FIG. 179 illustrates that the tissue removal device can be the spring512, for example a coil spring. The spring 512 can be in a flatconfiguration in the tissue protection barrier 528. The spring 512 canbe slidably attached to the tissue protection barrier 528.

FIG. 180 illustrates that the spring 512 can be translated, as shown byarrow 532. The spring can have a first spring section 544 not along thelength of the window 536. The spring 512 can have and a second springsection 504 along the length of the window 536. The first spring section544 can be in the flat configuration. As the spring 512 translates fromthe first spring section 544 to the second spring section 504, thespring 512 can expand, as shown by arrow 446, into a completely and/orpartially expanded configuration. As the spring 512 translates from thesecond spring section 504 to the first spring section 544, the spring512 can contract into a flat configuration and retract, as shown byarrow 492, into the tissue protection barrier 528.

FIG. 181 illustrates the deployment cover 436 that can have the tissueprotection barrier 528 inside the deployment cover 436. FIG. 182illustrates that the deployment cover 436 can translatably retract, asshown by arrow, from the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissueprotection barrier 528 can be in a non-expanded (e.g., contracted)configuration. FIG. 183 illustrates that the tissue protection barrier528 can then expand after, but not as a direct result of, the retractionof the deployment cover 436. The tissue protection barrier 528 canself-expand or be manually expanded. FIG. 184 illustrates that thedeployment cover 436 can be translatably retracted, as shown by arrow,from the entire tissue protection barrier 528. FIG. 185 illustrates thetissue protection barrier 528 in a deployed and expanded configuration.

FIG. 186 illustrates the deployment cover 436 that can have the tissueprotection barrier 528 inside the deployment cover 436. FIG. 187illustrates that the deployment cover can retract, as shown by arrow492, from the tissue protection barrier 528. The tissue protectionbarrier 528 can then expand as a direct result of the retraction of thedeployment cover 436. The tissue protection barrier 528 can self-expandor be manually expanded. For example, the manual expansion can be drivenor triggered by the retraction of the deployment cover 436.

The tissue protection barrier, and/or the access elements, and/or theneural protection element and/or the tissue removal device can have alubricious coating, for example, a hydrophilic coating, apoly(tetrafluoroethylene) coating. The coating can reduce frictionduring placement, diagnosis, treatment and/or removal. The tissueremoval device, the access elements and/or the neural protection elementcan by biocompatible and/or non-friable.

Any of the elements and/or entire apparatuses described herein can bemade from, for example, a single or multiple stainless steel alloys,nickel titanium alloys (e.g., Nitinol), cobalt-chrome alloys (e.g.,ELGILOY® from Elgin Specialty Metals, Elgin, Ill.; CONICHROME® fromCarpenter Metals Corp., Wyomissing, Pa.), molybdenum alloys (e.g.,molybdenum TZM alloy, for example as disclosed in International Pub. No.WO 03/082363 A2, published Oct. 9, 2003, which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety), tungsten-rhenium alloys, for example, asdisclosed in International Pub. No. WO 03/082363, polymers such aspolyester (e.g., DACRON® from E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company,Wilmington, Del.), carbon fiber composites (e.g., carbon fiber nyloncomposite, such as carbon fiber reinforced nylon 66), polypropylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded PTFE (ePTFE), polyether etherketone (PEEK), nylon, polyether-block co-polyamide polymers (e.g.,PEBAX® from ATOFINA, Paris, France), aliphatic polyether polyurethanes(e.g., TECOFLEX® from Thermedics Polymer Products, Wilmington, Mass.),polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, thermoplastic, fluorinatedethylene propylene (FEP), absorbable or resorbable polymers such aspolyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polydioxanone, andpseudo-polyamino tyrosine-based acids, extruded collagen, silicone,zinc, echogenic, radioactive, radiopaque materials or combinationsthereof. Examples of radiopaque materials are barium sulfate, zincoxide, titanium, stainless steel, nickel-titanium alloys, tantalum andgold.

Any of the elements and/or entire apparatuses described herein can be orhave a matrix for cell ingrowth or used with a fabric, for example acovering (not shown) that acts as a matrix for cell ingrowth. The matrixand/or fabric can be, for example, polyester (e.g., DACRON® from E. I.du Pont de Nemours and Company, Wilmington, Del.), polypropylene, PTFE,ePTFE, nylon, extruded collagen, silicone or combinations thereof.

Any of the elements and/or entire apparatuses described herein can befilled and/or coated with an agent delivery matrix known to one havingordinary skill in the art and/or a therapeutic and/or diagnostic agent.The agents within these matrices can include radioactive materials;radiopaque materials; cytogenic agents; cytotoxic agents; cytostaticagents; thrombogenic agents, for example polyurethane, cellulose acetatepolymer mixed with bismuth trioxide, and ethylene vinyl alcohol;lubricious, hydrophilic materials; phosphor cholene; anti-inflammatoryagents, for example non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) such ascyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) inhibitors (e.g., acetylsalicylic acid, forexample ASPIRINS® from Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany; ibuprofen, forexample ADVIL® from Wyeth, Collegeville, Pa.; indomethacin; mefenamicacid), COX-2 inhibitors (e.g., VIOXX® from Merck & Co., Inc., WhitehouseStation, N.J.; CELEBREX® from Pharmacia Corp., Peapack, N.J.; COX-1inhibitors); immunosuppressive agents, for example Sirolimus (RAPAMUNE®,from Wyeth, Collegeville, Pa.), or matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)inhibitors (e.g., tetracycline and tetracycline derivatives) that actearly within the pathways of an inflammatory response. Examples of otheragents are provided in Walton et al, Inhibition of Prostoglandin E₂Synthesis in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms, Circulation, Jul. 6, 1999,48-54; Tambiah et al, Provocation of Experimental Aortic InflammationMediators and Chlamydia Pneumoniae, Brit. J. Surgery 88 (7), 935-940;Franklin et al, Uptake of Tetracycline by Aortic Aneurysm Wall and ItsEffect on Inflammation and Proteolysis, Brit. J. Surgery 86 (6),771-775; Xu et al, SpI Increases Expression of Cyclooxygenase-2 inHypoxic Vascular Endothelium, J. Biological Chemistry 275 (32)24583-24589; and Pyo et al, Targeted Gene Disruption of MatrixMetalloproteinase-9 (Gelatinase B) Suppresses Development ofExperimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms, J. Clinical Investigation 105(11), 1641-1649 which are all incorporated by reference in theirentireties.

Many of the safety issues related to the methods and apparatus describedherein are similar to those associated with any surgical procedure,e.g., infection and/or bleeding. Some safety issues are more specific tosurgery in and around the spine or spinal cord, and are therefore givenspecial consideration below. These generally relate to spinal neural andneurovascular injury. Central Nervous System injury could result frominstruments inadvertently traumatizing the dura mater when entering theepidural space, injuring the nerve root (s), the adjacent vasculature,or the dorsal root ganglion as the apparatus is advanced and utilizedtowards and through the neural foramen.

Several techniques may be used to reduce a risk of dural, neural orneurovascular injury, including potentially traumatizing structuresincluding nerve roots, adjacent vasculature, or dorsal root ganglia. Forexample, the tissue alteration (e.g., abrasion) devices may be placedunder direct visualization when utilizing an open surgical approach ortechnique. Likewise, image guidance may be provided during placement orto confirm correct placement. Candidate image guidance techniquesinclude fluoroscopy, fluoroscopy alone, fluoroscopy with additionaltechnology for triangulation and tracking of instruments (e.g. infrared,RF, etc.), NRI, CT, OCT, ultrasound, etc. Catheters or guidewires mayinclude their own image guidance capabilities such as catheter orguidewire-based image guidance, e.g., fiberoptic visualization,catheter-based ultrasound, catheter-based MRI, optical tomography, etc.Alternatively or additionally, endoscopic visualization may be utilized(e.g. flexible fiberoptic endoscope as in Epiduroscope, or via rigidsurgical endoscopes), during placement and/or post-placementconfirmation of correct placement.

In addition to epidural endoscopy, image guidance may be combined withthe use of straight, curved, or steerable guidewires for the properplacement of the neuroforaminal abrasive element. Placement may beachieved percutaneously or through a surgical incision. Such a devicemay be implanted as an adjunct to an open surgical procedure(s); as anadjunct to an endoscopic surgical procedure(s); or as a separate open,image-guided percutaneous or endoscopic surgical procedure. Percutaneousapproaches will enable the surgeon to perform the procedure under localanesthetic in awake or sedated patients, if desired. As discussed, nervestimulation and localization capabilities may be added to the device inorder to enable the surgeon to more safely perform the procedure in ananesthetized, but un-paralyzed patient.

It is expected that the apparatus and methods of the present inventionwill facilitate a minimally invasive approach to the selectiveelimination (e.g., alteration, ablation, removal) of pathological spinaltissue, thereby enabling symptomatic relief in patients suffering fromspinal stenosis. Spinal neural and neurovascular impingement causetremendous pain and disability, with symptoms that include back and legpain, weakness, and decreased sensation. Neural ischemia and injurycaused by compression and inflammation may result in a wide range ofsymptoms or degrees of nerve damage. Symptoms range in severity frommild to severe, and from intermittent to permanent. For example,neurogenic claudication, which is exacerbated by back extension (asoccurs when one stands erect and places the spine in extension), may bemild or severe. Symptoms of neurogenic claudication are usually improvedby changes in posture that lead to back flexion, such as sitting. Themost severe cases of spinal stenosis may lead to permanent neurologicaldamage, including the possibility of the development of cauda equinasyndrome.

Spine surgeons lack safe and effective techniques or tools to minimallyinvasively or percutaneously reduce neural and neurovascular impingementin the spine, while minimizing collateral tissue damage. It is expectedthat the apparatus and methods of the present invention may be utilizedfor lateral recess and neuroforaminal enlargement to provide adequatebone and soft tissue resection, while reducing unnecessary destructionof functional bone, ligament or muscle in order to gain access to thetissues to be resected.

Spine surgeons lack safe and effective techniques or tools to minimallyinvasively or percutaneously reduce neural and neurovascular impingementin the spine, while minimizing collateral tissue damage. It is expectedthat the apparatus and methods of the present invention may be utilizedto provide adequate bone and soft tissue resection to achieve lateralrecess, neuroforaminal, and spinal canal enlargement, while reducingunnecessary destruction of flnctional bone, ligament or muscle ingaining access to the tissues to be modified.

Because critical neural and neurovascular structures are in closeproximity to the areas where surgical manipulation, dissection,resection, ablation and remodeling would be therapeutically valuable inthe spine, safety at each step in the procedure is of criticalimportance in order to avoid disabling neurological damage to thepatient. For this reason, safety measures, such as working barriers andnerve localization via an integrated nerve stimulator, are described.

It may be desirable to alter an elastic modulus of impinging tissue tofacilitate removal of the tissue. For example, it may be desirable toincrease the modulus of soft tissue to gain purchase on the soft tissuewith the tissue removal elements. Such modulus alteration may beachieved, for example, through compression, denaturation,electrosurgical exposure, thermal remodeling (hot or cold), chemicalalteration, epoxy or glues or hydrogels, or any combination thereof,etc. Remodeling of the tissue during modulus alteration may alleviateimpingement and obviate or reduce a need for tissue removal.

In order to reduce friction during placement, diagnosis, treatmentand/or removal, the open or percutaneous access elements, neuralprotection element 200 and/or tissue removal device 300 may comprise alubricious coating, for example, a hydrophilic coating, apoly(tetrafluoroethylene) coating, etc. Furthermore, the tissue removaldevice, the access elements and/or the neural protection element may bybiocompatible and/or non-friable. Integrated or separate debris removalelements also may be provided.

It is expected that the apparatus and methods of the present inventionwill facilitate selective elimination of pathological spinal tissue,thereby enabling symptomatic relief in patients suffering from spinalstenosis.

Spine surgeons presently lack safe and effective techniques or tools tominimally invasively or percutaneously reduce neural and neurovascularimpingement in the spine, while minimizing collateral tissue damage. Itis expected that the apparatus and methods of the present invention maybe utilized for lateral recess and neuroforaminal enlargement to provideadequate bone and soft tissue resection, while reducing unnecessarydestruction of functional bone, ligament or muscle in order to gainaccess to the tissues to be resected.

Because critical neural and neurovascular structures are in closeproximity to the areas where surgical manipulation, dissection andremodeling would be therapeutically valuable in the spine, safety ateach step in the procedure is of critical importance in order to avoiddisabling neurological damage to the patient. For this reason, safetymeasures, such as neural protection element 200 and neural localizationelement 210, may be provided.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes andmodifications can be made thereto. For example, elements of any of thedescribed variations may be used in any combination, as desired.Furthermore, the apparatus described herein may be used for a variety ofselective tissue removal procedures in addition to neural foraminaltissue impingement. For example, the apparatus may be used for treatmentof central spinal stenosis. Further, the methods and apparatus describedhereinafter are equally applicable to both open and percutaneousapproaches. For the purpose of clarity, they have been disclosedutilizing only a percutaneous or open access, but this shall not beconstrued as limiting.

Although preferred illustrative embodiments of the present invention aredescribed hereinabove, it will be apparent to those skilled in the artthat various changes and modifications may be made thereto withoutdeparting from the invention. It is intended in the appended claims tocover all such changes and modifications that fall within the truespirit and scope of the invention.

1. A surgical tissue removal system, comprising: a flexible elongatebody that is adapted to conform with the target anatomy, the body havingat least one blade edge, where the flexible elongate body is a thin,flat, ribbon shaped flexible body that further comprises a profilehaving a width that is substantially greater than a height; a region atthe proximal end of the flexible elongate body configured to be pulledproximally to draw the blade edge proximally across impinging tissue; aguidewire connector at the distal end of the flexible elongate bodyconfigured to removably connect to the end of a guidewire so that theend of the guidewire hooks into the guidewire connector at the distalend of the flexible elongate body so that the guidewire and flexibleelongate body can be pulled toward the target anatomy to bend theflexible elongate body against the target anatomy and can be pulleddistally to draw the cutting blade distally across impinging tissue,wherein the guidewire connector is configured to connect the flexibleelongate body to the end of a guidewire while the flexible elongate bodyis pulled both proximally and distally and the blade edge is pulledproximally and distally across the impinging tissue to cut the impingingtissue; and a barrier having at least one window, where the flexiblebody is slidably located within the barrier such that when the elongatebody moves within the barrier, the blade edges move across the window.2. The tissue removal system of claim 1, where the at least one bladeedge comprises a plurality of blade edges that are formed by openings inthe flexible elongate body.
 3. The tissue removal system of claim 1,where the blade edges comprise a shape selected from the groupconsisting of a serrated edge, a scalloped edge and a smooth edge. 4.The tissue removal system of claim 1, where the width of the flexibleelongate body varies along the length of the elongate body.
 5. Thetissue removal system of claim 1, where the barrier is coupled to atleast one of a vacuum source to provide suction or an irrigation source.6. The tissue removal system of claim 1, where at least a portion of theflexible elongate body includes a lubricious layer.
 7. The tissueremoval system of claim 1, where at least a portion of the barrierincludes a lubricious layer.
 8. The tissue removal system of claim 1,further comprising at least one measuring element coupled to theelongate body.
 9. The tissue removal system of claim 8, where the atleast one measuring element comprises a sensor or a sound.
 10. Thetissue removal system of claim 1, wherein the flexible elongated bodyfurther comprises at least one electrode.
 11. The tissue removal systemof claim 1, wherein the barrier further comprises at least oneelectrode.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the blade edge is flushwith a surface of the elongate body.
 13. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a distal handle configured to couple to the distal end ofthe flexible elongate body; and a proximal handle configured to coupleto the proximal end region of the flexible elongate body, wherein thedistal handle and the proximal handle are configured to allow the bodyto be reciprocated proximally and distally to cut tissue.
 14. The systemof claim 13, wherein the distal handle is configured to connect to theguidewire while the proximal end of the guidewire is connected to thedistal end of the flexible elongate body.
 15. The system of claim 1,wherein the guidewire connector region is configured to hook theflexible elongate body to the end region of the guidewire.
 16. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the blade edge is a v-shaped blade edge. 17.The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one blade edge comprises aplurality of discrete sharpened blade edges for cutting through tissueand bone.
 18. A surgical tissue removal system, comprising: a flexibleelongate body that is adapted to conform with the target anatomy, thebody having at least one blade edge extending from one surface of theflexible elongate body, where the flexible elongate body is a thin,flat, ribbon shaped flexible body that further comprises a profilehaving a width that is substantially greater than a height; a region atthe proximal end of the flexible elongate body configured to be pulledproximally to draw the blade edge proximally across impinging tissue;and a guidewire connector on the flexible elongate body configured toremovably connect to the end of a guidewire so that the end of theguidewire connects into the guidewire connector at the distal end of theflexible elongate body so that the guidewire and flexible elongate bodycan be pulled toward the target anatomy to bend the flexible elongatebody against the target anatomy and can be pulled distally to draw theblade edge distally across impinging tissue, wherein the guidewireconnector is configured to connect the flexible elongate body to the endof a guidewire while the flexible elongate body is pulled bothproximally and distally and the blade edge is pulled proximally anddistally across the impinging tissue to cut the impinging tissue. 19.The tissue removal system of claim 18, where the flexible elongate bodyis configured to pass through a subject's spinal foramen.
 20. The tissueremoval system of claim 18, where the blade edges comprise a shapeselected from the group consisting of a serrated edge, a scalloped edgeand a smooth edge.
 21. The tissue removal system of claim 18, where theat least one blade edge comprises a plurality of paired blade edgeswhere each blade edge in the paired blade edges intersects another. 22.The tissue removal system of claim 18, where the at least one blade edgecomprises a plurality of blade edges located on the surface of theflexible elongate body near the end of the flexible elongate bodycomprising the guidewire connector so that the end of the flexibleelongate body opposite of the guidewire connector does not include ablade edge.
 23. The tissue removal system of claim 18, where the atleast one blade edge comprises a plurality of blade edges and where theplurality of blade edges comprise a plurality of blade edges located onthe surface of the flexible elongate body near the center of theflexible elongate body so that the ends of the flexible elongate body donot include any blade edges.
 24. The tissue removal system of claim 18,where the width of the flexible elongate body varies along the length ofthe flexible elongate body.
 25. The tissue removal system of claim 18,where at least a portion of the flexible elongate body includes alubricious layer.
 26. The tissue removal system of claim 18, furthercomprising a motor coupled to at least a portion of the elongate body.27. The tissue removal system of claim 18, further comprising at leastone measuring element coupled to the elongate body.
 28. The tissueremoval system of claim 27, where the at least one measuring elementcomprises a sensor or a sound.
 29. The tissue removal system of claim18, wherein the flexible elongated body further comprises at least oneelectrode.
 30. The system of claim 18, further comprising: a distalhandle configured to couple to the distal end of the flexible elongatebody; and a proximal handle configured to couple to the proximal endregion of the flexible elongate body, wherein the distal handle and theproximal handle are configured to allow the body to be reciprocatedproximally and distally to cut tissue.
 31. The system of claim 30,wherein the distal handle is configured to connect to the guidewirewhile the proximal end of the guidewire is connected to the distal endof the flexible elongate body.
 32. The system of claim 18, wherein theguidewire connector region is configured to hook the flexible elongatebody to the end region of the guidewire.
 33. The system of claim 18,wherein the blade edge is a v-shaped blade edge.
 34. The system of claim18, wherein the at least one blade edge comprises a plurality ofdiscrete sharpened blade edges for cutting through tissue and bone. 35.The system of claim 18, the body having an axial length and a pluralityof blade edges arranged in rows extending from one surface of theflexible elongate body, wherein the rows are disposed transverse to theaxial length of the elongate body and the rows are separated by gapsthat extend transverse to the axial length of the elongate body.
 36. Thesystem of claim 35, wherein each row is separated by a gap having awidth equal to about from 100 micrometers to about 5 cm.
 37. The systemof claim 35, wherein each row is separated by a gap having a width equalto about 100 micrometers.
 38. The system of claim 35, wherein the rowsof blade edges are distributed along the length of the elongate body.